Crash On Downs Road Causes Major Delays As Festival Traffic Builds

Motorists are facing lengthy delays across parts of the Isle of Wight this morning following a collision on the Downs Road near Ashey.

The two-vehicle crash, involving a car and a van, happened close to the junctions with Rowlands Lane and Lime Kiln Shute.

The incident has resulted in significant congestion on surrounding routes, with traffic building through Downend, Ashey and Brading as emergency services and recovery teams deal with the aftermath.

Debris from the collision is reported to be scattered across the carriageway, affecting traffic in both directions.

The disruption comes on one of the busiest days of the year for the Island's road network, as thousands of festival-goers make their way to Newport ahead of the Isle of Wight Festival.

With ongoing restrictions on Fairlee Road affecting routes towards East Cowes and Wootton, many drivers have been using the Downs Road as an alternative route into Newport via Long Lane, increasing traffic volumes in the area.

Motorists are being urged to allow extra time for their journeys and consider alternative routes where possible while the scene is cleared.

There have been no immediate reports of any serious injuries.