Multi-Vehicle Collision Closes M11 Northbound in Essex

A multi-vehicle collision on the M11 in Essex has resulted in the closure of the northbound carriageway between Junctions 8 (London Stansted Airport) and 10 (Duxford). The incident, which occurred on the evening of March 5, 2026, involved three cars, a van, and a lorry that overturned and came to rest on its side at the edge of the road.

Emergency services, including Essex Police, Essex Fire and Rescue Services, and National Highways Traffic Officers, responded promptly to the scene. A spokesperson for Essex County Fire and Rescue stated, "We were called around 8pm, five crews attended the M11 northbound Junctions 8-9. It was an RTC involving four cars and one HGV. The HGV had overturned and was partially down an embankment. Crews released one casualty from one of the cars who was trapped. No one was trapped in the HGV. Fire crews left at 9.18pm."

Motorway camera footage showed heavy traffic approaching the incident. National Highways reported severe delays of approximately 79 minutes, with traffic moving at an average speed of 5 mph. A diversion route has been implemented, directing motorists off the M11 at Junction 8 onto the A120 through Little Hadham and Standon, then onto the A10 through Buntingford, Chipping, Buckland, and Reed, before rejoining the M11 at Junction 10 via the A505.

As of the latest updates, the M11 northbound remains closed between Junctions 8 and 10. Recovery operations are underway, and motorists are advised to follow the designated diversion routes and allow extra time for their journeys.