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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Harriette Boucher

M5 delays after lorry transporting electric cars catches fire

A stretch of the M5 is closed after a car transporter carrying electric vehicles caught fire.

The M5 in Devon is closed southbound between J28 in Cullompton and J29 in Exeter due to a fire on a heavy goods vehicle, and diversion routes are in operation.

There are delays as clear-up crews work on the scene. National Highways said that once it is clear, lane one will remain closed for emergency resurfacing.

Devon and Cornwall Fire and Rescue were in attendance and have extinguished the fire. Devon and Cornwall Police and emergency services were also on the scene, assisted by National Highways traffic officers.

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.”

A lorry carrying multiple electric vehicles caught ablaze (Jake Short)

National Highways has not given an estimate as to when the road will reopen.

Road users heading south are advised to exit the M5 southbound at J28. The northbound road reopened late this morning.

Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Diversion routes are in place however the incident has resulted in significant traffic issues and we advise motorists to avoid the area.

“Emergency services are continuing their work on the south-bound carriageway between Junctions 29 and 28.”

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