THERE are warnings of long queues on the M5 east of the Prince of Wales Bridge following a crash involving a tipper truck.

The truck driver reportedly "collided with an overhead gantry sign" on the M5 near Bristol.

The incident has caused a motorway closure in both directions between Junction 17 (Cribbs Causeway) and Junction 18 (the M49).

Some Newport Bus services were rerouted as a result.

"Structural engineers are currently on scene carrying out a full inspection of the damage sustainedm," National Highways said.

"Early estimations are that the the road is likely to remain closed throughout the day."

Southbound traffic is being diverted via this route:

  • Exit the M5 at J15 and head onto the M4 westbound;
  • Continue on the M4 to junction 22 and proceed to join the M49 headed southbound;
  • Continue on the M49 to rejoin the M5 at J18.

Northbound traffic is being diverted via the same route but in reverse.

Newport Bus said: "Due to the closure of the M5 our T7 service will divert as follows: M4 to Almondsbury interchange, onto A38 Gloucester Road, Aztec west roundabout, B4057 Patchway interchange, High Wood Road to Cribbs Causeway."