A tanker crash on the M40 southbound carriageway between junction 8A for Oxford and junction 6 for Watlington resulted in a significant spill of bitumen onto the road. The incident, which occurred around 19:45 GMT, involved the tanker and a van, but thankfully, no injuries were reported.
The spilled bitumen has hardened and bonded to the road surface, causing significant damage that will require lanes to be stripped and resurfaced. National Highways is managing the situation, diverting drivers onto the A418/A40 with hollow triangle diversion symbols.
A replacement tanker was used to transfer the remaining bitumen load in the early hours of Tuesday, and recovery of the stricken vehicle was set to begin. Following the tanker's removal, National Highways anticipated reopening one lane.
Drivers are advised to plan their journeys in advance due to expected significant delays.
