The M6 motorway in Greater Manchester has been closed in both directions following a tragic incident where a woman was found dead. The closure spans from junction 23 at the East Lancs Road to junction 26 at the M58 Orrell interchange. The incident occurred on the southbound carriageway between junctions 25 and 24 near Ashton-in-Makerfield, leading to a complete standstill in traffic.
Authorities, including Greater Manchester Police, are managing the situation, and the affected stretch of the M6 is anticipated to remain shut for the entire day. The exact time for the motorway to reopen remains uncertain.
Motorists are experiencing delays of up to 15 minutes, with the M61 being used as an alternate route, although congestion remains heavy. A diversion route has been established using the M58, A570 Rainford Bypass, and the A580 East Lancs Road. Additionally, Downall Green Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield has been closed due to the incident.
Images from traffic cameras show vehicles halted on the motorway between junctions 23 and 26. Google Maps also displays the closure, with traffic congestion visible in the surrounding areas.
In an official statement, Greater Manchester Police confirmed the incident and the unfortunate death of a woman. While the road closure is causing significant disruption, there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident. Emergency services are conducting investigations, and motorists are advised to review travel plans and exercise patience.
National Highways provided details on the closure, stating that the M6 between junctions 23 and 26 is shut in both directions. Delays of 45 minutes and 20 minutes are reported on the northbound and southbound routes, respectively, with significant congestion in both directions. The road is expected to remain closed throughout the day due to the ongoing police investigation.