The M1 has been partially closed near Luton as a huge multi-vehicle crash causes an oil spillage.

Police have confirmed the southbound side of the motorway has been closed between junctions 11 and 11A after the crash, which took place at around 8.45pm.

Initially, National Highways closed junctions 11 to 12 on the southbound carriageway, but this has been revised.

A diversion is now in place for motorists. The closure is only a few miles from Luton Airport, which remains open as normal.

National Highways believes an HGV has ‘overturned’. It said in its update: “One of the HGVs involved has overturned and come to rest on its side. There is also significant damage to the nearside barrier and boundary fencing, along with a substantial oil spillage across most lanes.

“Traffic that was caught within the closure has now been released past the scene via lane 4.

“Bedfordshire Police and other emergency services remain in attendance. National Highways Traffic Officers are also on scene assisting with traffic management.

“The carriageway will remain closed while emergency services complete their response, followed by vehicle recovery, barrier repairs and carriageway clean-up.”

THIS IS A LIVE NEWS EVENT. PLEASE CHECK FOR UPDATES BELOW…