The M6 motorway has been reopened after experiencing lengthy delays caused by a serious accident involving a lorry. The incident led to the closure of the northbound section between junction 34 for Halton and junction 35 for Carnforth in Lancashire. The overturned lorry resulted in a significant fuel spillage across the three lanes, necessitating emergency resurfacing.
Drivers were redirected to alternative routes such as the A683, causing considerable delays in their morning journeys. Lancashire Police and North West Ambulance Service were promptly deployed to the scene near junction 35 for Carnforth, affecting traffic heading towards the Lake District.
Although the M6 has been reopened, lane 3 remains closed in both directions for central reservation barrier repairs. Drivers in the vicinity are advised to allow extra travel time this afternoon. The overturned HGV has been successfully cleared, but traffic congestion persists towards junction 33 as emergency resurfacing efforts continue. The closure between junctions 34 and 35 remains in place, with lane three also shut on the southbound carriageway.
National Highways cautioned HGV drivers against using the diversion route if their vehicles exceed certain height and width restrictions due to a low bridge. The northbound closure is expected to last for further emergency resurfacing works, prompting motorists to plan for additional travel time.
The ongoing clean-up operation and recovery process have led to continued closures and diversions along the affected stretch of the M6. National Highways emphasized the need for drivers to adjust their schedules and consider alternate routes to navigate around the closure area. Traffic disruptions are anticipated on diversion routes, particularly along the A683 in Caton and Claughton.
The situation mirrors a recent incident on the M20 in Kent, where a multi-vehicle crash led to significant delays during rush hour. Authorities are present at the scene of the M6 closure, managing the aftermath of the overturned lorry and fuel spill. The closure is expected to impact traffic flow well into the morning, urging drivers to exercise caution and allow extra time for their journeys.
