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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Kris Gourlay

Edinburgh M8 drivers caught in huge tailbacks as crash closes West Lothian section

Part of the M8 motorway is currently closed following a "serious" road traffic collision shortly before rush hour on Monday.

Junction 5 westbound between Harthill and Whitburn, West Lothian, is currently closed with emergency services on scene due to the incident, with traffic reportedly starting to built in the area.

The incident occurred shortly after 4pm on Monday, October 10, although is is currently unclear how many vehicles are involved or if there are injuries.

READ MORE: Hero West Lothian woman tries to tackle sneaky shoplifter who flees with beers

A tweet from Traffic Scotland informed motorists that a section of the motorway is currently closed as traffic is expected to increase as rush hour approaches.

They said: "M8 CLOSED in both directions between J4A and J5 due to a collision. Emergency services are in attendance. Traffic beginning to build on the approach." They also advised people to use an alternative route if possible.

Live traffic cameras from the scene show huge tailbacks starting to form around Harthill for westbound traffic, as well as queues stretching as far as Whitburn.

An updated tweet from Traffic Scotland says the eastbound lane has now re-opened following a short closure, however delays for westbound traffic are expected to be around 60 minutes.

Road Policing Scotland tweeted an image from the scene showing the road blocked off and said the incident is '"serious" with traffic being diverted via 4A Heartlands, B7066 Harthill and re-joining the M8 at Junction 5.

We'll bring you more information and updates on this breaking news story as we get it. In the meantime, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest news, what's on, trending stories and sport.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Emergency services are at the scene of a crash on the M8 westbound near junction five at Harthill.

“The incident was reported shortly after 4pm on Monday, 17 October.

“The road is currently closed.”

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