Traffic disruption expected on M18 and M1 as police escort 'abnormal load' over weekend
Major delays are expected on the M18 and M1 this weekend
Drivers are being warned to expect delays on the M18 and M1 this weekend as a massive 350-tonne transformer is escorted across South Yorkshire.
On Sunday, May 24, a slow-moving abnormal load will travel from Goole to the electricity substation near junction 33 of the M1 under a police escort.
The convoy is expected to leave Goole at around 9am before travelling along the A161, M62, M18 and M1.
However, the force said they cannot confirm specific timings.
A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “On Sunday 24 May we will be escorting a large, slow moving abnormal load from Goole to the electricity substation off junction 33 of the M1.
“We are expecting to leave Goole around 9am and travel along the A161, M62, M18 then onto the M1.
“We cannot give any times for these locations as our travel and speed is dependent on traffic flow, weather conditions, and junction control.”
Police said delays are likely throughout the journey, particularly on the M18 near junctions six and two where the load will need to leave and re-join the motorway due to bridge weight restrictions.
Further disruption is expected near junction 33 of the M1, where officers will temporarily close the roundabout so the load can use the full carriageway safely.
Traffic entering and leaving the nearby services area will also be stopped while the transformer is moved onto a newly-built access road leading into the substation.
Officers said the closures at junction 33 are only expected to last a few minutes at a time, but warned motorists to prepare for tailbacks on surrounding routes.
South Yorkshire Police said the move must take place during daylight hours to ensure visibility and safety, particularly as the transformer will be entering an electrical substation.
Sunday was chosen as it is typically the quietest day on the road network for transporting abnormal loads.
Police motorcycles will escort the convoy throughout the journey and drivers have been urged to slow down and be prepared to stop at short notice if travelling in the area.
The transformer is being transported on a 40-axle trailer with 240 wheels, with tractor units pushing and pulling the load throughout the journey.