A serious collision on the M1 has led to significant delays for drivers during the bank holiday weekend. The southbound carriageway between Junction 13, near Bedford, and Junction 12, Flitwick, is currently closed due to a multi-vehicle accident.

Emergency services, including Bedfordshire Police, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, East of England Ambulance Service, and the East Anglian Air Ambulance, responded to the scene this afternoon. The incident has resulted in a complete standstill on this section of the motorway, as confirmed by National Highways.

Motorists are being advised to expect lengthy delays as they are diverted away from the crash site. A diversion route has been established, and drivers are instructed to follow the hollow square diversion symbols displayed on road signs. The recommended route begins at the M1, Junction 13 southbound exit slip road, leading onto the A421 Bedford Road. From there, drivers should continue to the crossroads of Bedford Road and Station Road, where they will need to turn right onto the A507 Ridgemont bypass.

Continuing on the Ridgemont bypass, drivers should proceed straight over the Salford Road and Station Road roundabouts to reach the Station Road/A507 T-junction. At this junction, a left turn onto the A507 towards Ridgmont is required. The route continues through Ridgmont to the A507/Fordfield Road crossroads, where a right turn onto Fordfield Road is necessary.

Motorists should then merge onto Steppingley Road, passing Flitwick Railway Station, and navigate to the Steppingley Road/A5120 roundabout. At this roundabout, the second exit onto the A5120 should be taken, continuing through the village of Westoning before rejoining the M1 at Junction 12.

As of now, Bedfordshire Police remain on the scene to conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Drivers are urged to exercise caution and follow the diversion signs to avoid further delays.