Traffic on the A1 northbound in Cambridgeshire was brought to a standstill after an early-morning collision between heavy goods vehicles sparked a large lorry fire. Emergency crews worked through the day to tackle flames, investigate the crash and clear wreckage, while motorists were warned to expect significant delays and to use alternative routes.
Details of the crash and the fire that followed
Police and highway authorities say the incident involved two HGVs overnight. The crash ignited a blaze that badly damaged both vehicles and left debris across the carriageway.
The fire caused major surface damage to the road, forcing teams to plan for full resurfacing once recovery is complete. Investigators remain at the scene to determine the sequence of events.
Which section of the A1 is affected and why it remains closed
The northbound A1 is closed between Junction 17 of the A1(M), near Peterborough, and the A47 at Wansford.
National Highways confirmed the carriageway will stay shut to allow for vehicle recovery and collision inquiry. Officials described the clearance operation as complex and lengthy.
How emergency services responded
Multiple fire crews, ambulances and police units attended the scene. Local volunteer firefighters posted photos of teams fighting the blaze and coordinating with other services.
- Fire crews focused on extinguishing the blaze and making the site safe.
- Ambulance teams were present to treat any injured people and stand by during the recovery.
- Police managed traffic control and opened an investigation into the collision.
Road condition, repair plans and estimated reopening
Authorities reported the carriageway sustained substantial damage from heat and debris. That damage rules out a simple reopening once wreckage is removed.
Work to mobilise a resurfacing crew is underway, but resurfacing can only begin after the investigation and recovery are complete. National Highways warned the northbound lane is unlikely to reopen until later in the evening.
Advice for drivers and the signed diversion route
Motorists were urged to avoid the area and follow the officially signposted detour marked with a hollow square symbol. The diversion uses a mix of A-roads around Peterborough.
Key diversion steps (follow hollow square signs)
- Exit the A1(M) at the free-flow lane before Junction 17 onto the A1139 Fletton Parkway eastbound.
- Take the A1139 exit onto the A1260 Nene Parkway at Junction 3.
- Continue north on the A1260 to the A47 Longthorpe Interchange, then head west on the A47 Soke Parkway.
- Travel west through Sutton roundabout to the Wansford junction area.
- At Wansford, follow the roundabouts and rejoin the A1 at the northbound slip road.
Drivers should allow extra time and expect congestion on the diversion route, as traffic volumes shift off the closed carriageway.
Local impact and travel planning tips
Commuters and freight haulers are likely to face long delays while recovery and repairs continue. Businesses that rely on the route should factor in slower deliveries and potential reroutes.
- Check traffic apps and National Highways messages before travel.
- Consider delaying non-essential trips until the road reopens.
- Plan alternative routes that avoid the immediate Peterborough area when possible.
What authorities are communicating to the public
National Highways maintained regular updates, asking motorists to adhere to diversion signs and avoid the closure zone. Local fire volunteers used social media to confirm the ongoing multi-agency response and to show crews at work.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision while coordinating recovery and repair teams to restore normal traffic flow as soon as it is safe.
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