A major incident on the M5 in Somerset brought traffic to a standstill, leading frustrated travellers to leave their vehicles in the midst of the gridlock. The closure, between Taunton and Wellington, was prompted by a police-led event that took place just after 11 am on Sunday, April 6.
The resulting congestion stretched as far as Bridgwater, with the M5 being inaccessible in both directions between J25 Blackbrook Interchange and J26 Chelston Interchange. National Highways confirmed the closure, urging drivers to seek alternative routes and directing assistance to those stranded within the blocked sections.
As drivers and passengers sought refuge from the prolonged traffic jam, reports emerged of people venturing onto the hard shoulder - an action that posed significant safety risks. Despite the chaos, the situation saw a successful resolution, with the M5 reopening at 12:15 pm and traffic gradually normalizing.
READ MORE: Extensive Extension for Bath Park & Ride Service
READ MORE: Experience Artisanal Dining at Bath’s Newest Open-Fire Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, Emberwood
Avon and Somerset Police later clarified that the incident had been a welfare concern, emphasizing that the issue had been safely addressed before the road was cleared for traffic.