29 arrests after protests on M25 and A1M in Hertfordshire
Some protestors glued themselves to the roads
Last updated 20th Sep 2021
Hertfordshire Constabulary have made 29 arrests after protests this morning (20 September).
Protestors blockaded junction 18 (Chorleywood) of the M25 shortly after 8am, with several gluing themselves to the carriageway, according to police. 13 people have been arrested.
Officers were were also called to reports of protestors near junction 4 (Stanborough Interchange) of the A1M.
They arrested 16 people, with officers confirming the "majority" were glued to the carriageway.
The M25 has been partially re-opened, while a diversion is in place on the A1M.
Elsewhere, the A414 Great North Road is also partially blocked, with queueing traffic because of the demonstration on the A1(M) at junction 4.
It has been reported a small number of protesters have partially blocked the roundabout near to Oldings Corner Retail Park.
Insulate Britain has said actions will continue "until the government makes a meaningful commitment to insulate all of Britain’s 29 million leaky homes by 2030, and all social housing by 2025".
The group said slip roads and the M25 carriageway have been blocked in a number of locations by campaigners, with blue paint being poured onto the road.
Hertfordshire Constabulary Chief Superintendent Nick Caveney said:
"Protestors have made it clear that they intend to continue causing disruption.
"Not only is purposely blocking a highway incredibly dangerous, it also affects thousands of members of the public who are stuck in delays as a result.
"We have robust plans in place in order to minimise any disruption and to allow us to make arrests as quickly as we possibly can.
"This includes, but is not limited to, monitoring areas that have been identified as possible protest targets.
"Officers were on the scene within minutes of being alerted to protest activity, allowing us to put diversions in place to ease the traffic and to make numerous arrests.
"All protestors involved in this morning’s protests have been arrested and will be taken to custody.
"We are working closely with other affected forces to ensure that any further activity is dealt with effectively and efficiently.
"I understand and appreciate the frustration regarding the considerable delays and inconvenience that has occurred as a result of the protests.
"We have now made a total of 76 arrests in relation to protest activity across Hertfordshire over the last week.
"Please be assured that a full investigation is underway, and we are in the process of gathering evidence in order to ensure that those breaking the law are brought to justice."
Insulate Britain said they wrote to the Highways Agency and police forces on Sunday, to inform them about today's campaign and request that the Highways Agency "review their previous decision not to reduce speed limits on the motorway during the protest".
The group added they are "surprised that it has not formed part of the agency’s response to the campaign to date".
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