Traffic Chaos In Wiltshire: Severe Delays Impacting Drivers

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Post on May 14, 2025

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Traffic Chaos in Wiltshire: Severe Delays Impacting Drivers

Wiltshire, UK – October 26, 2023 – Motorists across Wiltshire are facing significant travel disruption this morning following a series of incidents causing widespread traffic chaos. Severe delays are being reported on major roads, impacting commuters and causing significant frustration for drivers. Authorities are urging motorists to avoid non-essential travel and plan alternative routes where possible.

The current situation highlights the vulnerability of Wiltshire's road network to even minor incidents, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and traffic management strategies. This morning's chaos serves as a stark reminder of the significant economic and social costs associated with traffic congestion.

Major Incidents Contributing to the Gridlock

Several incidents have contributed to the current traffic chaos in Wiltshire:

• A multi-vehicle collision on the A361 near Chippenham: This major incident, involving three vehicles, resulted in significant road closures and lengthy tailbacks stretching for several miles. Emergency services, including police and ambulances, remain on the scene.
• Roadworks on the A303: Pre-planned roadworks on the A303 near Stonehenge are exacerbating the situation, adding to existing congestion and slowing traffic flow. These works, although necessary, have unfortunately coincided with the A361 incident, creating a perfect storm of traffic disruption.
• Breakdown on the M4: A broken-down lorry on the M4 eastbound near junction 17 has further compounded the problems, causing significant delays for those travelling into Wiltshire from neighboring counties.

These incidents, coupled with the typical morning rush hour, have created an unprecedented level of congestion across the county. Live traffic updates suggest delays of up to two hours are being experienced on some routes.

Advice for Drivers

Wiltshire Police are advising drivers to:

• Check traffic updates before setting off: Utilize resources such as Google Maps, AA Route Planner, or the Highways England website to check for delays and alternative routes.
• Avoid non-essential travel: If your journey is not urgent, consider postponing it until later in the day when the congestion is expected to ease.
• Allow extra time for your journey: Even if you are travelling on a route unaffected by the incidents, allow extra time as knock-on effects are being felt across the wider road network.
• Drive safely and patiently: With increased congestion, maintaining a safe driving speed and exercising patience is crucial to prevent further incidents.

Long-Term Solutions for Wiltshire's Traffic Problems

This morning's events underscore the ongoing need for long-term solutions to address Wiltshire's traffic problems. Experts suggest several strategies, including:

• Improved public transport: Investing in more frequent and reliable bus and train services could alleviate pressure on the road network.
• Strategic road improvements: Targeted improvements to key junctions and the expansion of existing roads could help improve traffic flow.
• Smart traffic management systems: Implementing advanced traffic management systems can help optimize traffic flow in real-time and reduce congestion.
• Encouraging cycling and walking: Promoting active travel options can reduce reliance on cars and help ease traffic congestion.

The current situation in Wiltshire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of well-planned transport infrastructure and proactive traffic management. While immediate solutions are being implemented to address the current chaos, long-term strategies are vital to prevent future occurrences of widespread traffic disruption across the county. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.