The A49 closed for several hours in the early hours of Friday morning following a crash involving a heavy goods vehicle near Ludlow.
Emergency crews were called shortly after 1am to the section of road between the A4117 and A456 junctions, close to Ashford Bowdler, after reports of a collision between an HGV and a car.
Police, firefighters, and highways teams attended the scene. While no one was trapped in the vehicles, a significant fuel spillage caused the road surface to become hazardous, forcing a full closure in both directions while clean-up work took place.
Specialist crews were brought in to remove the spilt diesel and make the area safe before the road could reopen. Temporary traffic lights have since been installed to control the flow of vehicles while resurfacing work takes place overnight.
Drivers were advised to find alternative routes through the morning rush hour as crews worked to clear the site and restore normal traffic conditions.
No serious injuries were reported.
UPDATE 24/10/2025 11:30AM
Officers say they are working to identify the driver of one of the cars, who is believed to have left the scene in another vehicle. The driver of the second car was uninjured.
Road closure and diversions
The A49 is currently closed from the A456 junction by the Salwey Arms to Brimfield Business Park and is likely to remain closed for a substantial period while enquiries and recovery take place.
- Southbound drivers: advised to turn left for Ludlow.
- Traffic towards Hereford: advised to turn right past the Woofferton garage.
Motorists should avoid the area, follow local diversions and allow extra time for journeys.
Police appeal
Inspector Pete Frankish said:
“We are carrying out a number of enquiries to locate the driver of the car, and check if they are injured. We would urge anyone with information, or dashcam footage which could assist with our enquiries to please get in touch.”
Anyone with information or relevant dashcam footage is asked to call 01905 331030.