A major motorway closure is causing severe disruption in the North West after a woman was found dead near the carriageway.
Motorway Shut Following Serious Incident
The M6 has been closed in both directions in Greater Manchester following a serious incident on Friday morning, 16 January 2026. Emergency services were called to the scene near Haydock after reports of a collision. A woman was sadly pronounced dead at the location.
The closure affects the stretch between Junction 26 and the northbound entry slip road at Junction 23. National Highways Traffic Officers and Greater Manchester Police are currently managing the scene. Investigations into the exact circumstances are ongoing.
Severe Travel Disruption for Motorists
The closure is causing extensive delays for Friday morning traffic. Drivers are facing significant hold-ups with approximately 60-minute delays and 5 miles of congestion on the northbound approach.
Southbound traffic is also heavily affected, with reported delays of around 30 minutes and queues stretching back for 4 miles. National Highways has warned that the closure is expected to remain in place for a considerable period.
Ongoing Response and Diversions
Emergency services remain in attendance at the scene on the M6. Motorists are being strongly advised to avoid the area entirely and to plan alternative routes.
Official diversions are in place, but all surrounding routes are expected to experience much heavier traffic than usual. Commuters and long-distance travellers are urged to check live traffic updates before beginning their journeys. The closure is anticipated to last for most of the day.
