M5 southbound shut: Latest on closure between Portishead and Clevedon

The M5 southbound between Junction 19 for Portishead and Junction 20 for Clevedon is back open after a serious crash which led to the sad death of a man in the early hours of this morning. There are still queues of up to 20 minutes on the motorway stretch following reopening just before 1pm.

The crash happened at 3.47am, and officers from Avon and Somerset Police were at the scene carrying out an investigation. During that time the road will stay closed. Work was also taking place to deal with an oil spillage.

A diversion route was in place, directing people off at Junction 19 and taking them along the A370 to Long Ashton before rejoining the motorway at Junction 21. Motorists also avoiding the closure by heading down the A4 Portway into Bristol.

At 1pm, a Highways England spokesperson said: “The #M5 southbound between J19 #Portishead and J20 #Clevedon has reopened following a serious collision. There are residual delays of at least 20 minutes above usual journey times between J17 and J19. Delays will now begin to ease. Safe travels.”

Earlier they had said: “Avon and Somerset Police are in attendance with a serious collision which occurred at 03:47 this morning. Police investigation teams are currently in attendance and the road remains closed whilst they complete their enquiries at scene. National Highways have resources in attendance to deal with an oil spillage and traffic management.”

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “An investigation is underway after a man died in a single-car collision on the M5 this morning. Emergency services were called at approximately 3.45am following the incident close to junction 19 (Gordano).

“One man, in his 40s, was taken to hospital, where sadly he died. His family have been informed and will receive support from specially trained officers.

“The M5 was remains shut this morning southbound between junctions 19 and 20. A diversion route has been set up, but motorists are advised to consider alternative routes if possible. Enquiries into the collision are now underway.”