UPDATE: the road has now re-opened.

THE A417 remains closed southbound near Cirencester after a serious traffic incident.

Police, the fire brigade and ambulances are on the scene.

Traffic is being advised to exit at the Quarry junction.

The road had been closed in both directions but is now open northbound.

An eyewitness reported seeing seven emergency service vehicles on the way to the scene after passing a vehicle on its side underneath the bridge at the roundabout in Stratton.

Cotswolds Police tweeted: 

Highways England tweeted an update:


An earlier statement from Highways England said: "Gloucestershire Police are on the scene.

"Traffic is currently being directed via local routes.

"Please allow extra time for your journey should you be travelling in the area."

More to follow.