M1 closed for second day as man refuses to come down from gantry
Main motorway between junctions 23 and 22 remains closed since 1pm Sunday
Commuters on the M1 motorway have been left frustrated once more as a man who climbed on to a gantry sign on Sunday afternoon remained there on Monday, causing part of the road to be closed for a second day.
Motorists are being told to steer clear of the area while police continue to negotiate with the man on the motorway information board gantry.
Diversions have been put in place by the Highways Agency following the M1 Southbound closure between junction 23 and 22 this morning.
Chief Superintendent David Sandall informed the public about he situation.
"Officers were called to the scene in the parish of Copt Oak just after midday yesterday (Sunday 12th June) after concerns were raised for the welfare of a man who climbed on to a gantry sign."
"We are working hard to resolve the situation but to ensure the safety of the man and the public it is necessary to keep the motorway closed."
We have trained police officers communicating with the man in order to reach a safe conclusion
Sandall confirmed that police are in contact with the man but have encouraged patience amongst road users as the situation may continue for some time.
"We have trained police officers communicating with the man in order to reach a safe conclusion but this may take some time. We will continue to keep the public updated and will of course reopen the road as soon as possible.”