A11 Southbound Section Reopens After Two-Hour Closure Due to Vehicle Fire and Collision

A significant segment of a principal roadway has resumed operation subsequent to a vehicle fire that led to extensive delays for drivers. The A11 southbound carriageway experienced a closure between the Thickthorn roundabout, located on the periphery of Norwich, and the B1135 Wymondham junction. This closure was prompted by the fire and a collision involving two vehicles, occurring approximately at 08:30 GMT. Norfolk Police announced the road’s reopening at 10:35, with a spokesperson stating there were “no reports of any serious injuries.” The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed sending an ambulance to the crash site, but no casualties required hospital transport. Firefighting units from the Earlham and Carrow stations in Norwich were dispatched to address the collision and the ensuing blaze. The imposition of the road closure generated considerable traffic congestion in the vicinity and on the westbound A47 at Thickthorn. Thick plumes of smoke were observed ascending from the incident location. Police reported that a broken-down vehicle in the area, which necessitated removal from the carriageway, further complicated the circumstances. National Highways stated that it had deployed teams to the scene and advised drivers to allocate additional time for their travels. A diversion was established from the Thickthorn roundabout, guiding traffic through the B1172 at Hethersett, with instructions for motorists to rejoin the A11 at the Tuttles Lane interchange.