Miles of congestion after lorry veers off M1 in Rotherham

Officers closed the M1 southbound between junctions 30 and 31 after the vehicle went into a ditch at the side of the motorway this morning (Tuesday).

Police said the driver of the lorry was not seriously injured but the lanes would stay shut until at least 6pm.

Long queues of traffic back were also stretching back to the M18, a police spokesperson said.

Some homes around the Aston and Anston area may be without power while the pole is recovered and restored, the spokesperson continued.

“Officers are working with National Highways and Northern Power to restore power and open the lanes as quickly as possible, although it is thought to be closed for some time yet,” said the spokesperson.

“Please avoid the area if you can and look for an alternative route.”

A spokesperson for National Highways said recovery was complex but under way.

“We currently have delays of around 60 minutes above normal journey times,” said the spokesperson.

“There’s six miles of congestion on the M1 back to J33.

“There are 3.5 miles of congestion on the M18 southbound approach to the M1.”

Gulliver’s Valley was affected by the power cut and did not open until 11.55am.

Dean Kimberley, director of guest services at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “Unfortunately Gulliver’s Valley was affected by a wider power cut in the Rotherham area earlier today which impacted on our usual opening time.

“Full power was restored at 11.55am with today’s closing times extended from 4pm to 5:30pm.

 “We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank all guests for their patience and understanding.”