Drivers have been warned to expect delays this afternoon on a busy route after an overturned lorry caused a pile-up of congestion, blocking the road.

The A414 eastbound in Hertfordshire has been closed between the M1 J7 and the A405 (St Albans) due to the collision.

Emergency services, including Hertfordshire Police, are currently in attendance alongside National Highways officers who have deployed resources to assist with traffic management.

Traffic is currently being diverted out of the area through local routes, with drivers warned of long delays while they remove the vehicle.

National Highways has begun diverting drivers to alternative routes

National Highways shared: "The A414 is CLOSED eastbound between the M1 J8 and the A405 (near St Albans) following a collision, resulting in an overturned lorry.

"Traffic on approach is being diverted via local routes. Please plan ahead if travelling in the area this afternoon."

The agency urged drivers to allow extra journey time and plan ahead to avoid being caught in traffic.

Traffic maps suggest that normal road conditions will not return until at least 5pm, potentially causing havoc for rush hour drivers.

Emergency services are currently working to clear the road

Dacorum Police shared on Facebook: "We are currently dealing with a collision on the A414, just off the M1, in Hemel Hempstead. Emergency services are at the scene and on the road.

"There is a closure in place, heading towards Hemel Hempstead, and we advise motorists to avoid the area at this time. Thank you."

The M1 starts in North London and ends just outside Leeds. It connects to several other motorways, inclduing M25, M45, M6, M69, M18, M62, M621 and A1M.

The RAC warned: "As with all motorways in the UK, there is always the risk of an accident on the M1 although there are excellent safety precautions in place. Always check for M1 traffic news to be aware of any accidents, and to avoid these areas if possible during your journey."

Normal traffic conditions are expected to return by 5pm