M60 Motorway Shut After Fatal Bridge Fall Causes Major Traffic Chaos
A section of the M60 motorway in Manchester remains closed this afternoon following a tragic incident where a man fell from Barton Bridge, resulting in his death. Greater Manchester Police confirmed the fatality after responding to a welfare concern earlier today, leading to significant traffic disruptions across the region.
Police Confirm Fatal Incident on Barton Bridge
Greater Manchester Police officers were dispatched to Barton Bridge on the M60 around 9:40 am after reports of a concern for welfare. Authorities later confirmed that a man had sadly fallen from the bridge and passed away at the scene. The force has urged the public to avoid the area as investigations continue, with the road closure expected to persist for several hours.
Extended Motorway Closure and Traffic Delays
National Highways has announced that the M60 will likely remain closed in both directions between junctions 9 and 12 for "several hours" due to ongoing police investigation work. Traffic caught within the closure is being gradually released, but drivers are facing delays exceeding 25 minutes on top of normal conditions. Live traffic cameras show gridlock on the motorway, with congestion stretching up to three miles on approach.
Diversion Routes and Travel Advice
To mitigate the disruption, detailed diversion routes have been established. Anti-clockwise traffic is being diverted via the M602, A576, and A5081, while clockwise traffic follows the A5081, A576, and M602. National Highways and local authorities are advising motorists to plan alternative routes and expect continued delays throughout the day, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the Barton Bridge area.
Impact on Local Traffic and Ongoing Response
The closure has caused widespread traffic mayhem in Manchester, particularly near the Trafford Centre, with significant queues forming on the M60. Emergency services, including police and traffic officers, remain at the scene to manage the situation. Updates from National Highways highlight the severity of the delays, urging patience and caution from drivers as the investigation unfolds.
