REPAIR works to the M4 following a collision earlier today have resulted in a stretched of the motorway being closed.
Emergency services were called shortly before 1pm this afternoon (Wednesday) following reports that a lorry had crashed through the central reservation and overturned.
The driver was airlifted to hospital with serious head injuries.
In a statement released by Highways England, a spokesperson said that the westbound carriageway remains shut while investigations are completed and the barrier is repaired. One lane of the eastbound carriageway also remains closed.
They said: “Drivers are being advised by Highways England that the westbound M4 is closed between junction 10 and junction 8/9 and one lane closed eastbound near Reading in Berkshire.
“The westbound carriageway remains closed following an incident involving an overturned lorry, which happened just before 1pm.
“One lane remains closed on the eastbound carriageway but additional lane closures may be required later to repair the barrier.
“A clearly signed diversion is in place following the hollow square symbol via the A329(M), A4, A3290 and A404(M).
“Highways England is working hard with the emergency services to reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Once Thames Valley Police has completed an investigation, extensive repairs will need to be carried out to the road before it can be safely reopened.
“Initial inspections have identified that 300 metres of the central reservation and a light column has been damaged with possible damage to the road surface.
“Drivers are advised to plan their journeys and to allow extra time as the closures are likely to continue through the evening peak period.”
For updates visit the Highways England website or follow @HighwaysSEAST on Twitter.
