The A66 remains closed in both directions this evening between the A591 at Keswick and the A5091 (Troutbeck) due to a collision involving a fuel tanker which has overturned and left the carriageway with the tanker has come to rest down an embankment.
The incident occurred shortly after 05:00 this morning and has resulted in a significant fuel spillage.
The closure of the A66 is expected to remain in place until at least Midnight and could extend into Sunday morning.
Traffic tryingto avoid the closure has been diverting along narrow roads leading to blockages and congestion through Saturday.
National Highways have said road users are advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol on eastbound road signs:
Exit the A66 on to the A591 northbound to Bothel
Turn right on to the A595 towards Carlisle
Turn right on to the B5305 to Penrith
Follow the B5305 through Sebergham to M6 J41, Catterlen
Join the M6 at J41 travelling southbound and rejoin the A66 at J40 (Skirsgill Interchange)
Road users travelling westbound are advised to follow the below route:
A road known locally as Burns.
HGV traffic is advised to use the M6 J44 to Carlisle, then the A689 west and A595 towards Workington
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