A14 Roadblock Near Newmarket: Multi-Vehicle Crash Causes 5-Mile Traffic Delays – What Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 16, 2025

Travelers heading through Newmarket, Suffolk, should expect significant disruptions today, as a multi-vehicle crash has led to the complete blockage of the A14 Westbound at J37 A142 Fordham Road. The incident, which occurred early on Tuesday morning (December 16, 2025), has caused severe delays, with traffic congestion stretching over five miles.

This has created major problems for business travelers and tourists alike, with an estimated 45-minute to an hour delay reported in the area. Emergency services are on the scene, and vehicle recovery efforts are underway. As the road remains blocked, travelers are being advised to seek alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys.

The Incident and Immediate Impact on Traffic

The crash, which involved six vehicles, occurred around 7:15 AM near the junction with the A142 at Fordham Road, close to Newmarket and Exning. According to Suffolk Police, the crash has fortunately not resulted in any injuries, but the A14 westbound has been completely blocked. As a result, two lanes on the motorway are currently closed, causing substantial delays.

Inrix, the traffic data monitoring company, confirmed that the A14 Westbound was severely affected by the crash, with traffic building up from J37 to J40, extending towards Higham. Motorists traveling in the area are advised to stay updated through local news outlets or traffic apps as recovery work continues.

Road Recovery and How It Affects Commuters and Tourists

With two lanes blocked and vehicle recovery in progress, travelers heading through the area will experience considerable disruption. For business travelers with tight schedules, these delays could cause significant frustration, particularly those who rely on the A14 for quick access between East Anglia and London.

For tourists visiting nearby Newmarket, famous for its horse racing tracks, and Exning, known for its rural charm, the traffic delays could impact travel times and planned activities. Many visitors will also face uncertainty around the best routes into London, especially for those catching trains from Newmarket station or planning to explore surrounding regions.

Quick Tips for Business Travelers and Tourists:

• Use alternative routes: If possible, avoid the A14 Westbound and consider using the A11 or M11 as alternative routes to avoid the congestion.
• Check for live traffic updates: Stay informed about the latest updates on the accident and road conditions through local news or apps like Google Maps.
• Allow extra travel time: Even after the lanes reopen, traffic will likely remain slow for some time, so factor in additional time for your journey.
• Plan for train travel: If traveling to London from Newmarket, check the latest train schedules and consider other routes to avoid being caught in road delays.

Ongoing Delays and Impact on Local Travel

The crash is still causing significant delays on local roads, and although two lanes have now been reopened, traffic flow remains sluggish. Local drivers and those traveling to and from Newmarket and Exning are advised to expect residual delays throughout the day.

This is not the first time the A14 has seen major disruptions, and it is likely that recovery efforts could take several hours before full traffic flow resumes. For those in the tourism industry, including local hotels and businesses, the delays may cause an impact on customer arrival times and scheduling.

Quick Tips for Local Residents and Commuters:

• Stay updated on recovery progress: Traffic recovery could take several hours, so check for live updates from the Suffolk Police or National Highways.
• Use public transport: If possible, avoid driving and consider using public transport options to navigate around the area.
• Travel off-peak: If you can, try to travel outside peak hours when traffic is likely to be less congested.

National Highways and Police Response

National Highways has been in contact with Suffolk Police to manage the situation and facilitate the clearance of the crash site. Recovery vehicles have been dispatched to remove the wreckage, and traffic officers are overseeing the temporary closure and lane management. Motorists are encouraged to remain patient while recovery efforts continue.

While no injuries were reported in the incident, it highlights the ongoing risks of multi-vehicle collisions on major roads. The accident occurred during a time when the A14 was particularly busy, and Suffolk Police has stated they will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Quick Tips for Drivers in the Area:

• Be patient and follow police instructions: Ensure that you adhere to any detours or road closures as directed by authorities.
• Avoid overtaking: With congestion and recovery work, overtaking other vehicles could be dangerous. Stick to the lane until traffic clears.

Conclusion: Staying Safe Amid Travel Disruptions

The A14 crash near Newmarket has caused severe delays, impacting both business travel and tourism in the region. While vehicle recovery efforts continue, drivers must be prepared for ongoing congestion and road closures. With alternative routes and live updates available, travelers are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly to avoid additional delays.

For tourists in the area, this disruption presents an opportunity to explore local attractions or relax in nearby Newmarket until the traffic clears. Business professionals are advised to adjust their schedules and use alternative routes to ensure they reach their destinations without further delay.

Key Takeaways:

• Multi-vehicle crash on A14 Westbound causes severe delays for up to 5 miles.
• Two lanes remain closed near Newmarket, with ongoing recovery work.
• Alternate routes include the A11 and M11 to avoid congestion.
• Business travelers should expect delays and plan ahead for recovery.
• Tourists may experience travel delays but can explore local areas until traffic clears.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated