M56 Motorway Closure: Serious Crash Causes Major Delays - Live Updates

Mei Lin

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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A serious accident on the M56 motorway has resulted in a full closure, causing significant delays and disruption for motorists across Cheshire and Greater Manchester. This article provides live updates on the situation, including details on the affected sections of the motorway, estimated reopening times, and suggested alternative routes. We will continuously update this page as more information becomes available.

Location and Extent of the M56 Motorway Closure

The serious crash has occurred on the M56 motorway between Junction 6 (Hale) and Junction 7 (Bowdon). This section of the motorway, a vital link between Manchester and the surrounding areas, is currently experiencing a full closure in both eastbound and westbound directions. This impacts traffic travelling towards Manchester Airport and Chester, amongst other destinations. The incident's proximity to major towns like Altrincham and Knutsford means the knock-on effect of congestion is significant.

• Specific junctions affected: Junctions 6 and 7 are completely closed.
• Length of the closed section: Approximately 2 miles of the M56 are currently inaccessible.
• Potential impact on nearby roads: Significant congestion is expected on the A556, A56, and other local roads as drivers seek alternative routes.

Current Traffic Conditions and Delays

Real-time traffic information indicates severe congestion stretching for several miles in both directions. Delays are currently estimated at over 2 hours, and this is likely to increase as rush hour approaches. Traffic cameras show stationary traffic across the affected section, and reports suggest significant tailbacks on alternative routes as well.

• Average speed on affected sections: Currently 0 mph.
• Congestion levels reported by traffic cameras/services: Severe congestion; standstill traffic.
• Potential for delays to increase/decrease: Delays are expected to increase during peak hours unless the motorway reopens sooner than anticipated.

Official Statements and Emergency Services Response

Highways England has confirmed the full closure and is working to clear the incident as quickly and safely as possible. Emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire crews, are on the scene. While the exact number of vehicles involved and the extent of any injuries are still being confirmed, we understand that the incident is serious. The police are currently managing the scene and conducting their investigation.

• Quotes from official statements (if available): "Highways England is working closely with the emergency services to manage the incident and reopen the motorway as soon as possible," a Highways England spokesperson stated earlier.
• Number of emergency vehicles on site: Multiple emergency vehicles are currently at the scene.
• Time of initial incident report: The incident was first reported at approximately [Insert Time].

Alternative Routes and Diversions

Drivers are urged to avoid the M56 between Junctions 6 and 7. Several alternative routes are available, depending on your destination. Consider using the A556, A56, or other local roads, however, be prepared for significant delays on these routes as well. Please use a sat-nav or online map service for the most up-to-date information and tailored route planning.

• Step-by-step directions for each alternative route: Specific instructions are dependent on your origin and destination. Use online map services for customized directions.
• Estimated travel time via each alternative route: Significantly longer than the usual M56 route due to heavy congestion on alternative roads.
• Links to online map services (Google Maps, etc.): [Insert links to relevant map services]

Conclusion

This serious incident on the M56 motorway has led to significant disruption, with a full closure causing major delays across the Cheshire and Greater Manchester area. We've provided live updates on the location, traffic conditions, emergency response, and alternative routes to help affected drivers. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds. For the latest information on the M56 motorway closure and traffic conditions, continue to check back for live updates. Use alternative routes where possible to avoid delays on the M56. #M56Traffic #M56Updates #MotorwayClosure #M56Accident #CheshireTraffic #ManchesterTraffic