M5 traffic chaos as major motorway closed in one direction with 9-mile diversion in place

Drivers are facing traffic woes on Monday morning as delayed resurfacing works have prompted a nine-mile diversion route on a major motorway. Commuters using the M5 near Tiverton in Devon are encountering a significant disruption due to a road closure.

The road between Junction 27, for Tiverton, and Junction 26, for Wellington - was scheduled to reopen at 6am on Monday after the completion of essential roadworks. However, the National Highways informed that the northbound carriageway has remained closed "due to an issue with the tarmac". A National Highways spokesperson said: "ROAD CLOSED M5 northbound between J27 Tiverton in Devon and J26 Taunton in Somerset.

"Due to resurfacing works which are taking longer to complete than anticipated. Contractors have advised that the tarmac is taking time to set and is not safe to use at this stage. A diversion is in place using the by the A38 and A358. Work expected to be complete by 7am."

Due to the road closure, motorists are being directed to take an alternative route that spans nine miles to bypass the affected area.

Drivers are being advised to follow road signs marked with a solid circle to navigate the diversion. To do so, they should exit the M5 at Junction 27 and take the third exit onto the A38 heading towards Wellington.

They are urged to continue on the A38 for around nine miles until reaching the Chelston Roundabout. There, take the fourth exit to head back towards the M5 and rejoin the northbound carriageway at Junction 26.

To ensure drivers stay on the correct path, they are being instructed to follow signs marked with a solid circle symbol, which has been designated as the official diversion indicator for this detour.

However, the traffic was eased out by 7am as the National Highways updated about the completion of the roadworks on the motorway.

In the latest update on X, the authorities stated: "The works are now complete and the M5 northbound between J27 Tiverton in Devon and J26 Wellington in Somerset has re-opened. Thank you for your patience, please have a safe onward journey."