Long delays on M54 and A5 in Shropshire as power cables fault closes carriageway
Motorists on the M54 and A5 in Shrophire were facing long delays this afternoon after both carriageways of the A5 were closed when a power line conductor was found to be hanging over the road.
The road was closed in both directions from 1pm due to the problem found in the overhead lines between the Preston and Emstrey Islands.
Motorists are reporting delays of up to 50 minutes due to the closure, which is expected to be lifted by 4pm at the latest. It also caused knock-on effects around the Ketley Brook Roundabout, off junction six of the M54 at Ketley.
The work is underway between the two islands, between Telford and Shrewsbury, on the westbound carriageway, but both carriageways have been closed for safety while the work is underway.
Police have been managing the road closure while engineers from Western Power Distribution deal with the problem.
Louise Birkett, a spokeswoman from WPD, said: "We're planning major works on Emstrey later this month.
"Engineers went out to see what other work they could do while the closures were in place.
"While they were there they discovered a conductor hanging over the road. As far as we're aware there is no lost power.
"Although there is plenty of clearance, there is a danger it could fall.
"Police have been called out to help close the road while the engineers remove the problem and make it safe.
"It is estimated to be complete by four, though they are hoping it may be sooner."
A diversion is in operation and motorists are being encouraged to exit at the junction seven slip road for Wellington onto Holyhead Road.
Drivers are also experiencing long delays on the B5061 due to the diversion.
