The reason as to why a major Swindon road was closed in both directions during rush hour has been revealed by police.

On late Wednesday afternoon, the road next to Cheney Manor Industrial Estate was shut both ways by officers onsite.

The force later confirmed that a serious crash involving a van and a pedestrian had taken place earlier.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “Please be aware that the road for Cheney Manor Industrial Estate outside ATS Euromaster is currently closed in both directions following a collision between a van and a pedestrian.

“The road is likely to be closed well into the evening.

“Please avoid the area.”

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The crash and road closures led to severe congestion in and around the general area of Cheney Manor into the night.

A knock-on effect was dealt to the town’s bus system too with Swindon Bus Company confirming that several services were cancelled.

A spokesperson for Swindon Bus Company said: “Due to a Road Traffic Collision, of which we are not involved, on Cheney Manor Road there will be delays and short notice cancellations to Service 5 this evening.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this.”

The road currently remains closed in both directions and traffic is continuing to build up in the affected area.