Hampshire Constabulary

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M3 closed northbound at Basingstoke

Press Releases

Published: 20/10/2011

Information correct as at 5pm, Thursday, October 20

Hampshire Constabulary is continuing to facilitate the closure of the northbound M3 between junctions 7 and 5 following two road traffic incidents.

The closure between junctions 6 and 5 follows the incident around 8.30am today which resulted in a fuel tanker spilling approximately 500 litres of diesel.

The response to the incident is being co-ordinated by the Highways Agency who have informed us the resurfacing works should be completed and the road re-opened by 8pm.

The closure between junctions 7 and 6 followed a serious injury road traffic collision between a lorry and a car at around 12.36pm. 

A woman in her 30s suffered life threatening injuries and was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital.

The car driver, a second woman in her 30s, suffered more minor injuries.

Anyone who witnessed or has information about the collision is asked to contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting Operation Gatling.

Hampshire Constabulary has taken the decision to keep this section of the carriageway closed until the entire northbound carriageway can be re-opened because this is the safest option and will cause the least disruption and confusion.

The southbound carriageway is open but is slow due to drivers slowing down. Officers are asking not to rubberneck to help keep traffic flowing.

Motorists are being asked to continue to avoid the Basingstoke area until later this evening, to plan ahead, to allow extra time if travelling is necessary and to expect delays.

Alternative routes are available along the A34, A31 and A30 or the A3(M).

Chief Inspector Cleave Faulkner said: "I'd like to thank drivers for their patience and to reassure them that we are continuing to do everything we can to get the motorway running again as soon as possible."

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