Emergency Closure on M6 Motorway: Police Presence and Latest Updates
Early this morning, a section of the M6 motorway was fully closed following reports of a person falling from a bridge. The closure, stretching between junction 27 (Standish) and junction 26 (Skelmersdale), was initiated by the North West motorway police. The closure was implemented around 2 am, and the Greater Manchester Police Traffic department warned of significant delays in the area as a result of the incident.
The Greater Manchester Police Traffic department tweeted: “We’re responding to reports of a person falling from a bridge on the M6 between J27 & J26 southbound. The road is closed while emergency services attend and significant delays are expected in the area for the immediate future. Thank you for your patience at this time.”
National Highways spokesperson added, “At around 02:00 the M6 southbound near Wigan was closed to assist the multi-agency response to this North West Motorway Police Group led incident. National Highways Traffic Officers are at scene implementing traffic management to support both police and the North West Ambulance Service.”
Extended Closure and Investigation
Due to the nature of the incident, police collision investigations are required before the carriageway can be reopened. As a result, there is currently no estimate available for when the M6 southbound between junction 27 and junction 26 can be reopened. The closure is expected to remain in place throughout the morning for complex investigation works.
Highways England provided an update on their Twitter account, advising motorists heading southbound on the M6 to be aware of the ongoing closure between junction 27 (Standish) and junction 26 (Skelmersdale) following the serious incident.
Diversions and Traffic Management
Road users are advised to follow the ‘Solid Square’ diversion symbol on local road signs. Non-HGV routes include a low railway bridge of 12’0″ (3.6m) and a narrow canal bridge. The diversion route involves exiting the M6 at junction 27, joining the A5209, turning onto the B5206 southbound, then transitioning onto the A577 eastbound before rejoining the M6 south at junction 26.
For HGV drivers, the diversion route includes joining the A5209, transitioning onto the A49 southbound, following the A577 westbound, and rejoining the M6 south at junction 26. These diversions are in place to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of all road users.
Conclusion
The closure of the M6 motorway due to a serious incident has resulted in significant delays and traffic diversions in the affected area. As emergency services continue to investigate the incident, motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and exercise patience while traveling through the area. Updates on the reopening of the M6 southbound between junction 27 and junction 26 will be provided as soon as they become available.