Attention, Derby residents! A major traffic incident has unfolded, causing significant disruptions and lengthy delays. The A38, a vital artery for the city, is currently closed southbound near Kingsway Island, and here's why it matters to you.
Derbyshire Police took swift action earlier today, closing the A38 in both directions between Kingsway and the A516 slip road at Littleover. As of 7:30 pm, the northbound carriageway has reopened, but the southbound side remains shut, with police officers and ambulance services still on the scene.
A spokesperson from National Highways clarified that the closure is due to an ongoing police-led incident, with the East Midlands Ambulance Service also in attendance. They emphasized the need for traffic management support, initially closing the road in both directions before reopening the northbound lane.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the northbound carriageway is open, the southbound side remains closed, causing a significant backup of traffic. Motorists are being urged to find alternative routes, with Google Maps showing heavy delays across the western part of the city.
The impact of this closure extends beyond just road users. Buses, particularly the X38 and route 20 services, are also affected, causing delays and potential inconvenience for commuters and hospital visitors.
And this is the part most people miss... The closure has created a ripple effect, with traffic backing up towards Uttoxeter New Road and seemingly gridlocking the roads surrounding the Royal Derby Hospital. This could potentially impact emergency services and hospital access.
Inrix, a traffic monitoring service, confirmed the full road closure earlier, attributing it to a police incident and the resulting queuing traffic.
So, what's the takeaway? Well, it's a reminder of the importance of planning ahead and staying informed about traffic conditions, especially during incidents like these.
Now, here's a thought-provoking question for our readers: In situations like these, do you think the authorities should prioritize reopening one carriageway to ease traffic flow, or should they focus on resolving the incident first, even if it means longer delays?
We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Sources: Derbyshire Police, National Highways, Inrix, Arriva Buses
