The closures come after parts of the UK were hit by flash flooding, with some areas receiving more than a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours. Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, and parts of London have been particularly affected, with homes flooded and travel networks heavily disrupted.
A5 closure at Milton Keynes
The A5 northbound between the A421 (Bletchley/Stadium MK) and the A509 (Great Holm) at Milton Keynes has been shut due to extensive flooding. This closure is affecting travel in Buckinghamshire, with National Highways contractors working to reduce floodwater on the carriageway.
Drivers are being advised to follow a diversion route marked by the ‘Hollow Triangle’ symbols on road signs. The diversion guides drivers along the A421 towards Buckingham and then onto Watling Street through Knowlhill and Furzton, before rejoining the A5 at Portway Roundabout with the A509.
A421 closure in Bedfordshire
In Bedfordshire, the A421 has been closed in both directions between the A6 and M1 Junction 13 due to severe flooding, with water levels recorded at up to eight feet in some areas around Marston Moretaine.
The flood occurred following torrential rain on Sunday, 22 September, affecting efforts to clear the road.
Articulated tankers and pumping equipment are currently in use to remove the floodwater, though there is no clear timeline for when the road will reopen. In addition, three vehicles that were abandoned in the flooded section will need to be recovered before the carriageway can be cleared for traffic.
Diversions for this closure are not symbol-led, and road users are being directed along Bedford Road and Woburn Road to navigate around the closure. Motorists heading northbound should take Bedford Road from M1 J13, while those travelling southbound are advised to exit the A421 at the Marsh Leys junction with the A6.