By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-10-19 08:20:37 | Updated at 2026-10-19 09:34:17
1 hour ago
WATCH: National Highways warns drivers of road rules as they could face hefty fines
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NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Drivers are facing long delays on a popular motorway during rush hour this morning following a huge accident.
The M6 in Greater Manchester remains closed northbound between J23 (Newton Le Willows) and J24 (Ashton-In-Makerfield).
National Highways confirmed that this was down to a "serious collision", which took place just before 10pm last night (Sunday, October 18).
Emergency services have been in attendance, including Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
Traffic officers from National Highways also attended the scene and continue to assist with road management.
Collision investigation works led by the police have taken place throughout the night as the road was completely closed.
The southbound carriageway has since re-opened at around 7.30am this morning.
One of the vehicles involved in the collision caught fire, leading to the road surface being damaged and needing to be resurfaced.
Emergency works will be taking place throughout the morning once the impacted vehicle has been recovered.
National Highways warned: "There is not currently an estimated time for the road re-opening."
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "At around 9.55pm last night (Sunday, October 18), we received a report of a collision involving a van and a lorry between junctions 23 and 24.
"The northbound carriageway remains closed this morning and motorists are advised to avoid the route while emergency services deal with the incident. Thank you for your patience."
National Highways has called for drivers to allow extra journey time or even delay their travels as a result of the accident.
A diversion route has been set out for both carriageways, although the southbound diversion is no longer necessary.
It encouraged motorists to leave the M6 at J24 and turn onto the A58 before heading east on the A580 and rejoining the M6 at J23.
Road users heading northbound are advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol on road signs:
- Leave the M6 at J23 and, at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto the A580 heading west
- Follow the A580 to the A580/A58 junction and turn right onto the A58 eastbound
- Continue on the A58 eastbound back to the M6 J24 and rejoin the M6 northbound at J24 to continue your journey
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