Cyclist ‘critical’ as chaos reigns on roads

At last report the male cyclist was in ‘critical’ condition at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital following the accident at around 7am.

The A1 has was closed in both directions, with gridlocked traffic being redirected onto the M1.

Meanwhile, an oil spill on the A1 at Dromore added to the chaos, with motorists advised to avoid the road, and a contraflow was in operation on the carriageway between Dromore and Banbridge, due to flooding.

Also at Dromore, the Lurgan Road has been closed due to subsidence; Lurgan-bound traffic is being diverted via the Monree Road. Dromore bound traffic is being diverted via the Lisnasure Road.

Police have been advising motorists to drive with caution due to the hazardous driving conditions following the heavy rain overnight.

“The A1 northbound lanes remain closed between Dromore and Hillsborough following a serious collision which occurred just before 7am involving a lorry and a male cyclist,” said Lisburn Area Commander, Chief Inspector John Wilson. “The cyclist has been taken to hospital and his condition is critical.

“There are also problems of flooding and an oil spill on the A1 this morning so this will contribute to delays in the area and motorists are advised to avoid the road if possible.

“Drivers should exercise caution and adjust their driving to suit the prevailing conditions. Wet roads and bad weather obviously make driving more difficult and motorists should drive according to the road conditions to stay safe.

“Slow down and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It takes longer to stop on a wet road than a dry road so extra care is needed.”

Police investigating the collision are also appealing for witnesses and would ask anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact them on the non-emergency number, 101.