A34 Traffic: Road partially reopens between M4 and Chilton after lorry and digger leave carriageway

It is the second closure on the A34 in the space of 24 hours. Credit: National Highways

Update 07:05am

The A34 northbound has partially reopened between the M4 J13 at Chieveley and the A4185 at Chilton. A lane 1 (of 2) closure remains in place at the scene whilst nearside barrier repairs are being completed.National Highways has urged drivers to allow extra journey time if in the area this morning.

A stretch of the A34 is to be closed through rush hour today after a lorry carrying a 24 tonne digger left the carriageway.

At around 16:45 yesterday (Thursday 20 September) Thames Valley Police, Berkshire Fire and Rescue, South Central Ambulance Service and National Highways were called to the northbound section of the A34 between the M4 and the A4185.

Rolling road blocks were put in place and one lane was kept open, however at 22:00 last night a recovery attempt began.

Due to the complex nature and weight of the vehicles involved, recovery efforts are ongoing and the full closure will remain in place throughout this mornings peak traffic period, National Highways said.

A section of nearside barrier was also damaged in the collision and this will be repaired once recovery of the lorry is completed.

A diversion route has been put in place. Drivers have been advised to leave extra time for their journeys.

A34 Northbound Diversion:

Road users are advised to follow the solid diamond diversion symbol on road signs

  • From the A34 northbound, leave at the M4 junction 13 interchange.

  • At the roundabout, use the 1st exit and join the M4 westbound.

  • Follow the M4 to junction 14. At the roundabout use the 3rd exit and join the A338 (Ermin Street).

  • Continue for approximately 10 miles to Wantage.

  • Continue to a T junction with the A338 (Newbury Street/Ormond Road).

  • Turn right and join Ormond Road.

  • Follow to a further T junction with the A417 (Charlton Road).

  • Turn right at the T junction and join the A417.

  • Continue for approximately 5 miles to a roundabout at Rowstock.

  • Use the 1st exit and join the A4130 (Abingdon Road).

  • Follow the A4130 for approximately 2 miles to the A34 Milton interchange.

  • At the roundabout, use the 1st exit to rejoin the A34 northbound.