M54 closed after lorry carrying 70 tonnes of hay catches fire in middle of lane – sparking long commuter delays

THE M54 has closed after a lorry carrying 70 tonnes hay burst into flames in the middle of the motorway causing rush hour chaos. The westbound carriageway was closed between junction three for Albrighton and junction four for Telford after lorry caught fire last night. A lorry carrying 70 tonnes of hay burst into flames Credit: Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service The M54 westbound remains closed between Junction 3 and Junction 4 Credit: Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service Smoke was sent billowing into the sky as six fire engines were deployed just before 6.30pm. The flames have since been extinguished but the road remains closed this morning while recovery and clean-up crews are on the scene. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! National Highways said road resurfacing may need to take place and urged drivers to follow the diversion routes. A spokesperson said: “The M54 in Staffordshire/Shropshire is closed westbound between J3 (Albrighton) and J4 (Telford) due to an HGV fire. “The carriageway was closed shortly after 7pm on 11th August due to a lorry transporting hay which caught fire. “Shropshire Fire and Resue services are in attendance. “National Highways Traffic Officers are also in attendance assisting with traffic management.” Comment now