M27 closed: England fans face traffic chaos ahead of Kosovo match at St Mary's in Southampton

Football fans travelling into Southampton tonight have been warned to plan an alternative route after part of the M27 was closed.
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The road has been blocked westbound between Junction 5 for Eastleigh and Junction 4 for the M3 exit after a van caught fire and oil was spilled over the carriageway.

Traffic is queuing back to Junction 9 at Whiteley and is being diverted by Highways England.

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The closure is causing problems for football fans heading into the city tonight for England’s football match against Kosovo at St Mary’s Stadium.

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Section of the M27 closed after van fire leaks fuel onto motorway

Hampshire police said those heading to the match, which kicks off at 7.45pm, should take an alternative route via the A335 to the M3 southbound, before rejoining the M27 going west.

Police have also warned that the route may be closed overnight as the road may need to be resurfaced.

About 150 litres of oil and fuel has been spilt.

Traffic levels at 4.30pm. Picture: Google MapsTraffic levels at 4.30pm. Picture: Google Maps
Traffic levels at 4.30pm. Picture: Google Maps

Hampshire Constabulary, South Central Ambulance Service and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have also been at the scene.

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An ambulance service spokesperson said no-one was injured in the fire.

In a statement Highways England said: ‘All traffic remains held at this time.

A view of the M27 from junction 9 for Whiteley. Picture: @BenKnellsA view of the M27 from junction 9 for Whiteley. Picture: @BenKnells
A view of the M27 from junction 9 for Whiteley. Picture: @BenKnells

‘Please remain in your vehicles as you are preventing other emergency service vehicles attending scene.

‘Traffic Officers have started turning traffic around to come off at J5 – please follow instructions and await instruction.

‘Please remain in your vehicles and do not walk around the carriageway – all services are working hard to get things moving.’

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