DRIVERS are facing long delays this morning as the M5 is closed in Gloucestershire due to flooding.

The M5 in Gloucestershire is closed northbound between J16 and J14 and southbound between J14 and J15 due to flooding.

The closure is expected to affect drivers heading south from Worcestershire or returning north to the county from the south.

A spokesperson for National Highways said: "Avon and Somerset Fire and Rescue are working with the Environment Agency, police, our traffic officers and vontractors at scene to clear the flooding as soon as possible. There are currently delays of up to 45 minutes on approach to the closure point in both directions."

Diversion routes:

Northbound traffic is diverted to follow the solid triangle symbol:- 

Exit the M5 at J16 onto the A38. Follow to re-join the M5 at J14

Southbound traffic is to follow the Solid Circle symbol

Exit the M5 at J14 and at the end of the slip road turn right onto the B4509 westbound At the junction with the A38 turn left onto the A38 southbound, towards Bristol Continue on the A38 for approximately 8 miles to Almondsbury Roundabout/M5 J16 Take the third exit to rejoin the M5 southbound.

Delays are likely on the approach to this closure, with additional journey times also expected on diversion routes.