LIVE: Long M5 delays as air ambulance called to collision

Two people are believed to have been injured following a multi-vehicle collision on the M5 in Devon, which has resulted in the closure of the southbound carriageway. 

National Highways South West has confirmed that the motorway is currently closed between Junction 28 (Cullompton) and Junction 29 (Exeter / Exeter Airport).

Emergency services are currently in attendance at the scene. As part of the response to the incident, traffic on the northbound carriageway has also been brought to a temporary halt to allow an air ambulance to land safely.

Drivers are urged to expect significant delays in the area and to plan their journeys accordingly, seeking alternative routes where possible while emergency teams work to manage the scene.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

1.18pm: Motorists report total standstill in motorway queues

Drivers caught in the tailbacks on the M5 are reporting that traffic remains at a complete standstill.

One motorist caught in the congestion told The Gazette: "I’ve been here a while. Nothing’s moving."

1.15pm: Traffic building in Exeter

Traffic is building in Exeter on surrouding roads to the M5 on the B3181 and the A373. It has been advised to avoid these area or allow additional journey time. 

1.05pm: Air ambulance lands on M5 following collision

Photographs sent to the North Devon Gazette confirm that the air ambulance has now landed on the M5 motorway between Junction 28 and Junction 29.

12.56pm: Emergency services attending multi-vehicle collision on M5

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that emergency services are currently at the scene of a multi-vehicle collision on the M5 near Exeter.

Officers were called to the scene at 11.30am today (13 March) following the incident on the southbound carriageway between Junctions 28 and 29. Ambulance and fire crews are also in attendance.

It is understood that at least two people have sustained injuries.

To facilitate the landing of an air ambulance, the M5 is currently closed southbound at Junction 28, and a closure is being implemented northbound at Junction 29.

Motorists are strongly urged to avoid the area and to plan alternative routes for their journeys.