Drivers on a key Midlands motorway are facing severe disruption and queues stretching up to an hour after a serious collision. The incident, involving a heavy goods vehicle and two cars, has forced the closure of two lanes on the M5 northbound between Junction 1 at West Bromwich and the M6 interchange at Junction 8.
Scene of the Collision and Emergency Response
The multi-vehicle crash occurred on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, leading to a significant emergency service presence. All relevant services are reported to be at the scene, though the extent of any injuries is not yet known. The closure of lanes one and two is necessary for vehicle recovery and clear-up works following the collision.
National Highways West Midlands confirmed the ongoing situation via social media, stating: "Lanes 1 and 2 remain CLOSED on the #M5 northbound between J1 #WESTBROMWICH and #M6 J8 for vehicle recovery and clear up works following a multi vehicle collision." They added a stark warning for motorists, noting "delays of 60 mins on approach to the incident."
Severe Traffic Disruption and Expected Clearance
The closure has created major tailbacks on a crucial transport link connecting Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region. Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported "two lanes blocked and severe delays" on the M5 Northbound from J1 at Kenrick Way to the M6 Interchange.
According to live camera feeds from Motorway Cameras, normal traffic conditions are not expected to resume until between 8:45pm and 9:00pm on Tuesday evening. This timeline is dependent on the completion of recovery and clear-up operations at the scene.
Advice for Motorists and Alternative Routes
Drivers planning to use the M5 northbound through the West Bromwich area are being strongly advised to seek alternative routes or allow for considerable extra journey time. The affected stretch is a major conduit for traffic heading towards the M6, meaning knock-on delays are likely on surrounding A-roads and local networks.
Key facts for travellers:
- Location: M5 northbound between J1 (West Bromwich) and M6 J8.
- Closure: Lanes 1 and 2 (of 3) remain shut.
- Reason: Recovery after a multi-vehicle crash involving an HGV and two cars.
- Delay Time: Up to 60 minutes on approach.
- Expected Clearance: Between 20:45 and 21:00 on 30 Dec 2025.
Motorists are urged to check live traffic updates from National Highways or local travel news before commencing their journeys.
