On 17 January, significant traffic disruption is affecting drivers across several parts of the UK. The A627(M) motorway is fully closed following a serious incident, while heavy congestion continues on the M4 Spur to Heathrow Airport. Further delays are being reported around Junctions A99, A59 and A199, causing longer journey times for commuters and airport passengers. Motorists are being advised to avoid the affected routes, check live traffic information and plan alternative travel where possible, reports The WP Times citing official traffic monitoring media.
Where the problems are – verified information
A627(M) – full closure
The A627(M) remains fully closed in both directions following a serious incident on the carriageway.
Emergency services and recovery teams are continuing to work at the scene, and the road is not expected to reopen before approximately 20:30 BST on 17 January. Official diversions have been implemented on surrounding A-roads, with drivers urged to follow signed alternative routes.
Impact:
The closure is causing major disruption for motorists travelling through Greater Manchester, particularly those connecting to the M62 and local commuter networks. Significant delays are being reported across the wider area.
M4 Spur – Heathrow Airport delays
Heavy congestion is affecting approaches to Heathrow Airport, with slow-moving traffic reported in both directions on the M4 Spur. Current delays are running at up to 30 minutes above normal travel times, and queues are expected to persist throughout the evening peak period.
Impact:
Passengers travelling to Heathrow are likely to experience longer than usual transfer times and are being advised to allow additional time for their journeys.
Junctions A99, A59 and A199
Traffic flow has been reduced around Junctions A99, A59 and A199, leading to knock-on congestion on nearby local roads. Evening commuters are facing slower journeys, and diversion routes are under increasing pressure as drivers seek alternatives. Impact: Regional travel in these areas is expected to remain difficult until late evening, with further delays possible as traffic volumes increase.
Practical travel advice for 17 January: how to plan your journey and avoid delays
Travel conditions on 17 January are proving particularly challenging across several parts of the UK. The ongoing closure of the A627(M), heavy congestion on the M4 Spur to Heathrow, and disruption around Junctions A99, A59 and A199are all contributing to extended journey times. These issues are affecting commuters, business travellers and airport passengers alike. Anyone planning to travel is strongly encouraged to prepare carefully, check live traffic information and build extra time into their plans.
What drivers should do now
- Check real-time traffic updates from Traffic England or trusted navigation apps
- Avoid the A627(M) corridor entirely until the closure is lifted
- Allow at least 45 minutes of additional travel time
- Plan alternative routes in advance to minimise disruption
For Heathrow passengers
Travellers heading to Heathrow Airport are advised to consider alternatives to driving where possible. Recommended options include:
- Elizabeth Line services to Heathrow
- Heathrow Express from London Paddington
- London Underground Piccadilly Line
Passengers should aim to arrive earlier than normal and keep up to date with airline and airport communications in case of further disruption.
Alternative planning
- Postpone non-essential journeys until later in the evening if possible
- Use local A-road diversions rather than motorway approaches
- Ensure vehicles are adequately fuelled and carry essentials in case of extended queues
Transport authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. Once the incident on the A627(M) has been resolved and the motorway reopens, congestion is expected to ease gradually. However, residual delays around Heathrow Airport and major junctions may persist for several hours afterwards.