Major Southampton Road Closed Two Miles Diesel Spill

A large diesel spill caused by a punctured fuel tank on a heavy goods vehicle forced the closure of Thomas Lewis Way in Southampton between the Lawn Road and St Denys junctions. The spill covered approximately two miles of the road, leading authorities to close the route for safety reasons and to prevent accidents due to reduced friction on the road surface. Commuters experienced significant delays, with bus services facing up to 50-minute disruptions, and businesses suffered from reduced customer access and financial losses. The road was reopened around 1 a.m. after extensive cleanup and safety inspections, as diesel can weaken asphalt and increase the risk of potholes. Police and council officials advised drivers to seek alternative routes and allow extra travel time during the closure. Warnings and updates were issued through local news and council social media channels to keep the public informed.