A significant motorway in the UK has been completely shut down overnight and into this morning following a car crash that led to a substantial response from emergency services. The closure of the M6 in both directions occurred around 10 pm last night due to a severe collision near Standish, Greater Manchester, between junctions 27 and 28. Lancashire Police have confirmed the involvement of two vehicles in the incident but have not disclosed further details. Authorities are currently conducting collision investigation activities at the scene.
A complete closure is currently enforced with alternative routes provided for commuters. Lancashire Police released a statement addressing the ongoing investigations into the two-vehicle crash that necessitated the prolonged closure of the M6. The collision reportedly occurred close to Charnock Richard services on the southbound carriageway. Officials urge the public to refrain from speculating online and to exercise patience while the investigation unfolds.
Delays on the northbound M6 have extended to 130 minutes, with National Highways cautioning drivers to anticipate delays exceeding 100 minutes. An accident investigation on the southbound M6 between junctions 28 and 27 is ongoing, causing delays of over 60 minutes. The closure of the M6 in both directions remains in effect following a serious collision the previous night.
A spokesperson from National Highways informed that all traffic within the closures has been released, with Lancashire Police conducting collision investigations before recovery and clean-up operations commence. Similarly, traffic within the southbound closure has been cleared, and traffic is gradually moving past the scene in lane 1 on the northbound carriageway.
Lancashire Police offered an update on their Facebook page, indicating the M6 closure between junctions 27 and 28 due to a collision. Emergency services are present at the scene treating individuals involved in the crash. The authorities urge the public to avoid speculating and to be patient as they work to normalize the situation.
For those affected by the closure, alternative routes have been marked with specific symbols on local road signs to guide drivers around the impacted areas. The emergency services response continues, with disruptions expected to persist throughout the night as both directions remain closed between junctions 28 and 27. National Highways emphasized the need for extra journey time and proactive route planning for those affected by the closure.