Motorway Section Closed After Lorry Overhangs Footpath

A section of motorway was shut down, causing significant delays for individuals traveling on Christmas Eve, following a lorry’s impact with a safety barrier. The collision, which occurred early Tuesday morning on the M40 between junctions 7 and 6, resulted in the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) extending precariously over a pedestrian footpath beneath. The southbound lanes were completely shut off from junction 8a for Oxford to junction 6 for Lewknor to facilitate the vehicle’s recovery. Subsequently, the carriageway was partially reopened to allow for necessary barrier repairs. National Highways announced the complete reopening of the road shortly before 18:30 GMT. The agency reported that residual traffic delays were under 10 minutes. A diversion route was established via the A40 during the period of the closure. Craig Sowden, operations manager for National Highways’ East region, stated: “This collision has left an HGV balancing precariously over a footpath used by members of the public below.” He had previously commented: “We have looked at all possible options but the only way to manage this situation safely is to close the carriageway.”