Merseyside drivers have been warned about a build-up of traffic in one part of the region this afternoon.
The Formby Bypass has been shut since just after 11am today following a "serious" crash involving a BMW and a cyclist. The crash happened at around 11.05pm at the junction with North End Lane.
Emergency services arrived at the scene, with the road being blocked off. Drivers have now been told to avoid the area with Merseyside Police confirming the road will be closed for a "considerable period of time".
READ MORE: Live updates as 'serious' crash closes Formby Bypass in both directions
Traffic monitor INRIX said: "A565 Formby Bypass in both directions closed, slow traffic due to accident from B5193 Orrell Hill Lane (Ince Blundell) to B5195 Altcar Road (Formby). Congestion to Moor Lane. Traffic is also slow on the routes through Hightown as traffic diverts around the closure. Affecting traffic between Liverpool and Formby. Road was closed shortly before 11:30."
Traffic is being filtered through Maghull as the road remains closed and emergency services are in attendance. A spokesperson for Merseytravel also confirmed that some services may be diverted, delayed or cancelled due to the road closure, with the Arriva 47 and Stagecoach X2 being particularly affected.
Sefton Council tweeted about the disruption, telling people to plan alternative routes. It said: "Formby Bypass is currently closed due to a police incident. If you're travelling in the area please plan alternative routes until further notice."
A Merseyside Police spokesperson said: "We can confirm we are this morning, Tuesday 15 th March, at the scene of a road traffic collision in Formby. Officers were called to the Formby bypass/North End Lane at 11.05am following reports of a collision involving a cyclist and a BMW car.
" Ambulance crews are at the scene and there are road closures in the local area while the incident is dealt with. The driver of the car stopped at the scene. The Formby bypass is expected to be closed for a considerable period of time and motorists are advised to avoid the area."
