Drivers are being warned of long delays this morning as road workers rush to complete emergency repairs following a collision and oil spillage.
National Highways has confirmed that the M4 in Berkshire is closed eastbound between J12/Theale Interchange (Theale, Reading (W) A4) and J11 Three Mile Cross Interchange (Reading (C&S), Basingstoke A33).
The oil spillage was first reported in the early hours of the morning, which was caused by a vehicle collision.
A full closure of the M4 was implemented to allow providers to work on the scene and resurface the road.
The closure is slowly being lifted, although traffic is expected to remain over the coming hours.
National Highways said: “If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time.
“Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.
Traffic on the M4 remains slow for motorists during rush hour
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
“Further information is available from National Highways by visiting our Traffic England website and travel apps, or via our regional X feed.”
National Highways originally reported 45 minutes of delays, alongside four miles of traffic.
However, social media users warned that traffic delays could be around 90 minutes, severely impacting those travelling during rush hour.
Drivers around Reading are dealing with long delays this morning
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The AA stated: “Long delays and two lanes closed due to emergency repairs on M4 Eastbound from J12 A4 Bath Road (Theale) to J11 A33 Basingstoke Road (Reading).
“Road had fully re-opened just before 7am, but lanes three and four (of four) have been closed again.”
National Highways has outlined a diversion route for those looking to travel on the M4.
National Highways has outlined a diversion route
|
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Drivers are advised to follow the route marked with a hollow circle symbol on local road signs
- Exit the M4 at J12 Theale Interchange and at the roundabout take the first exit onto the A4 Bath Road towards Reading
- Continue on the A4 towards Reading. At the traffic light-controlled junction with the A4155 near Southcote, turn right to remain on the A4 (Berkeley Avenue)
- At the traffic light-controlled junction with Rose Kiln Lane, turn right
- Follow the Rose Kiln Lane to the traffic light-controlled junction with the A33 Basingstoke Road and turn right
- Follow the A33 Basingstoke Road southbound to the M4 J11 Three Mile Cross Interchange
- At the Interchange roundabout, take the second exit to re-join the M4 eastbound