Summary: The A52 Brian Clough Way is closed both ways after a multi‑vehicle collision near Borrowash. The closure runs from Victoria Avenue to M1 Junction 25; motorists should expect lengthy delays and follow official diversions.

The A52 Brian Clough Way has been completely shut in both directions following a significant multi‑vehicle crash between Borrowash and Junction 25 of the M1. Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported the incident just after midday, and the closure—running from Victoria Avenue to the M1 junction—has left the busy route impassable while authorities clear the scene.

What happened at the scene

The collision involved several vehicles and left debris scattered across the carriageway, complicating clearance efforts. In addition to wreckage, members of the public and emergency responders reported animals on the road, which has added another safety concern and slowed recovery work.

Derbyshire Constabulary confirmed that both eastbound and westbound lanes remain blocked as officers and emergency services manage the incident and begin their investigation. The closure affects a key corridor linking local towns to the M1, disrupting both commuter and long‑distance traffic.

Traffic impact and congestion

The full closure has triggered heavy congestion across surrounding roads as drivers divert to avoid the blocked section. Long queues have formed, particularly from Ockbrook to Junction 25 of the M1, with ripple effects on nearby junctions and local streets.

  • Closure: A52 closed both directions from Victoria Avenue to M1 Junction 25
  • Location: Between Borrowash and M1 J25 (Derbyshire)
  • Initial report: Incident logged by Inrix just after midday
Emergency response vehicles and traffic on A52 after a multi-vehicle crash near M1 Junction 25
Emergency services working at the scene on the A52 Brian Clough Way as traffic builds on diversion routes

Emergency response and safety measures

Local emergency services and Derbyshire Constabulary are coordinating recovery and safety operations. Officers have put in place diversions and traffic management to keep motorists away from the scene while vehicles are recovered and debris is cleared. Authorities have also warned drivers against attempting to pass through the affected area.

Because animals were reported on the carriageway, clearance teams must take extra precautions, which is likely to prolong disruption. The police have stated the road will remain closed for some time while they complete their investigations and ensure the area is safe for reopening.

Suggested alternative routes

  • Use the A6005 or A5111 to bypass the affected A52 section
  • For M1 access, consider the A50 or local approaches to the motorway
  • Motorists can use M1 Junctions 24 and 26 as alternative entries to the motorway

Drivers heading towards Derby or the M1 should expect delays on diversion routes as traffic redistributes. Local junctions and routes near the closure are likely to be busier than usual while the A52 remains impassable.

Advice for drivers

Motorists are urged to avoid the A52 stretch between Victoria Avenue and M1 J25 if possible, allow extra journey time, and follow diversion signage and instructions from officers managing traffic. Check local traffic updates and navigation apps for the latest information before travelling.

Derbyshire Constabulary will provide further updates as the situation develops. Travelers and commuters should monitor official channels and traffic services for reopening times and additional guidance.

Why this matters: The A52 Brian Clough Way is a key arterial route linking towns in Derbyshire to the M1 and wider motorway network. A prolonged closure affects daily commuters, regional freight and long‑distance journeys, increasing travel times and pressure on alternative roads. For anyone planning to travel in or through Derbyshire today, factoring in this disruption is essential to avoid delays and ensure safety.