A major stretch of the A14 has been shut in both directions near the busy junction linking the M1 and M6 after a serious early-morning crash, triggering widespread travel disruption across the Midlands and leaving thousands of drivers facing long delays.
The closure affects the section of the A14 between the Catthorpe Interchange and junction two for Kelmarsh in Northamptonshire, a critical motorway link used daily by commuters, freight operators and long-distance travellers moving between the Midlands and the East of England.
Rugby traffic report: A14 closed between Kettering and M1/M6 after two separate 'serious' crashes https://t.co/k7zYL8caI0
— Northampton Chron (@ChronandEcho) January 27, 2026
According to traffic officials, two separate collisions were reported in the area, including one involving two lorries and a van on the eastbound carriageway shortly after 05:30 GMT. Emergency services, including Northamptonshire Police, were dispatched to the scene, with highways officers assisting in managing the growing congestion.
Large queues quickly built up on surrounding routes as the road was closed in both directions. Drivers travelling westbound experienced congestion stretching back towards junction eight for Kettering, while eastbound traffic was unable to access the A14 from the M1 or M6, creating significant knock-on delays across the wider motorway network.
The Catthorpe Interchange is one of the most strategically important road junctions in the UK, and even short-term incidents in the area can cause rapid gridlock. With the morning rush already under way, many drivers reported near-standstill conditions and extended journey times as traffic was diverted onto already busy local roads.
National Highways confirmed that diversion routes were put in place for motorists travelling on both the M1 and M6, while recovery work continued at the crash site. Officials urged drivers to avoid the area entirely if possible and to allow extra time for essential journeys, warning that delays could continue until the road is safely reopened.
Traffic experts say incidents involving heavy goods vehicles often require longer closures due to the complexity of vehicle recovery and the need for thorough safety inspections. Any damage to barriers or carriageway surfaces can further extend disruption, particularly on high-speed trunk roads such as the A14.
Commuters and logistics operators across the Midlands were advised to monitor live traffic updates before setting off, as congestion continued to ripple across Northamptonshire and neighbouring counties. Several surrounding A-roads also saw increased traffic volumes as drivers attempted to bypass the closure.
National Highways said full details of the official diversion routes and live updates on the incident were being published on its website, where motorists can check the latest information before travelling. The agency reiterated its advice for road users to plan ahead and follow diversion signage while emergency services complete their work.
The incident once again highlights how vulnerable the UKâs motorway network can be to disruption at major interchanges, particularly during peak travel periods. As traffic continues to build, drivers across the region are being urged to stay patient, drive carefully on diversion routes and keep journeys to a minimum where possible.
For more UK breaking travel and traffic updates, see related coverage on Swikblog, while official diversion details and real-time updates are available directly from National Highways.
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