The M1 motorway in South Yorkshire has been closed in both directions following a serious collision that occurred on May 1, 2025. The incident, which happened at approximately 9:50 AM, has led to significant traffic disruptions, affecting motorists traveling between junctions 36 (Hoyland) and 37 (Barnsley).
According to National Highways, the southbound carriageway remains closed while emergency services, including South Yorkshire Police and Yorkshire Ambulance Service, continue to work at the scene. As of the latest updates, there is no estimated reopening time, and accident investigation works are still ongoing.
Traffic management officials reported that severe delays are building up due to the closure, with drivers facing long waits as they are rerouted. Traffic maps indicate that congestion extends towards Junction 38, with delays reported to be around 20 minutes. National Highways has advised motorists to expect delays and to plan alternative routes if possible.
Motorists traveling southbound are advised to follow specific diversion routes. They should exit the M1 at Junction 37, take the third exit onto the A628, and follow it for approximately five miles to the roundabout with the A629. From there, they should take the first exit onto the A629, continue for around six miles to the junction with the A616, and turn left onto the A616. Finally, they should follow the A616 back to the M1 southbound at Junction 35A and take the first exit to rejoin the M1.
For those traveling northbound, the recommended route is to leave the M1 at Junction 36, take the first exit onto the A61, and follow it for about one mile until the junction with the A616. At the roundabout, they should take the third exit onto the A616, continue for three miles to the junction with the A629, and turn left onto the loop road. After that, they should turn left again onto the A629, follow it for approximately six miles to the junction with the A628, and take the third exit onto the A628. Finally, they should continue on the A628 for about five miles back to the M1 at Junction 37 and take the first exit to rejoin the M1 northbound.
The serious nature of the crash has prompted calls for assistance from those stuck in the traffic. With temperatures soaring to around 25 degrees Celsius, some individuals have taken to social media to request that police provide water to motorists, especially those with young children who may be trapped in the heat. One concerned individual posted online, "Can someone on duty make sure the people who are stuck get some water? There may be young children stuck in this heat with no provisions." This highlights the urgent need for support for those affected by the traffic disruptions.
As the situation develops, local residents are using community forums to share updates and information about the ongoing incident. Reports indicate that the Yorkshire Air Ambulance was seen landing near the crash site, underscoring the severity of the situation. South Yorkshire Police have confirmed their presence at the scene, stating, "Please be aware that the M1 between junctions 36 and 37 is currently closed due to a road traffic collision. Emergency services remain at the scene."
Inrix, a traffic management system, has also reported on the closure, noting, "M1 in both directions closed, severe delays due to serious accident between J36 A61 (Barnsley South / Hoyland) and J37 A628 Whinby Road (Barnsley / Dodworth)." This incident has affected not just those traveling on the motorway but has also caused significant congestion on surrounding roads, particularly the A61 through Birdwell as drivers divert from the closure.
By the afternoon, updates indicated that the northbound carriageway had reopened, allowing some relief for stranded motorists. However, the southbound section remains closed as investigations continue. National Highways has reiterated that the southbound carriageway remains closed between Junction 37 and Junction 36 following the serious collision, and they have urged drivers to stay informed via their social media channels for the latest updates.
As the situation unfolds, motorists are encouraged to stay patient and follow the recommended diversion routes. The continued presence of emergency services at the scene indicates that safety remains a top priority as they work to clear the aftermath of the collision. For those affected, the hope is that normal traffic conditions will resume as soon as possible, but for now, the focus is on ensuring the safety of all involved.
In summary, the M1 motorway's closure due to a serious collision has led to extensive delays and traffic rerouting, with emergency services actively managing the situation. Motorists are advised to stay updated and follow diversion routes to avoid further complications.
