M62 Eastbound Closed for Emergency Resurfacing Following HGV Fire
Commuters in Greater Manchester are experiencing significant rush-hour delays this morning due to the closure of a section of the M62 eastbound. The motorway is shut from junction 18, which connects to the M60 and M66, to junction 19 near Heywood, Greater Manchester. This closure is necessary to allow for emergency resurfacing works following an HGV fire that occurred on Tuesday, February 10, shortly before 6:00 am.
Impact on Traffic and Diversion Routes
The closure has resulted in no traffic on this stretch of the M62, causing chaos for drivers during peak hours. Service providers are currently on-site to manage the situation. The closure is expected to remain in effect until approximately 7:30 am, although it may extend throughout the night depending on the progress of the works. The fire on Tuesday caused severe delays, bringing traffic to a standstill and highlighting the urgency of the repairs.
To mitigate the disruption, a diversion route has been established. Motorists are being redirected onto the M66 and along local roads in Bury, Greater Manchester. From there, drivers can rejoin the M62 at junction 19 to continue eastbound towards destinations such as Rochdale, Huddersfield, and Bradford. Authorities advise commuters to plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra travel time.
Background and Ongoing Updates
The emergency resurfacing works are a direct response to the damage caused by the HGV fire, which necessitated immediate attention to ensure road safety. The incident has underscored the vulnerability of key transport infrastructure to unexpected events. For real-time updates on the M62 closure and traffic conditions, follow our live blog, which provides continuous coverage of the situation.
This closure is part of broader efforts to maintain and repair motorways across the region, with similar incidents occasionally leading to temporary shutdowns. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and consider alternative routes where possible to avoid further congestion.
