The M6 northbound remains closed between junction 23 at Newton-le-Willows and junction 24 at Ashton-in-Makerfield in Merseyside following a serious crash on Sunday night that caused one vehicle to catch fire. The southbound carriageway reopened shortly before 8am on Monday, but emergency resurfacing works are currently taking place on the northbound side.
Crash Details and Emergency Response
The collision, involving a van and a lorry, was first reported to National Highways at around 10.20pm on Sunday, October 18. Merseyside Police confirmed receiving a report of the incident at approximately 9.55pm that evening.
Both carriageways were initially closed, but the southbound side reopened at approximately 7.30am this morning. 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 spokesperson added: "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."
Road Surface Damage and Recovery Works
National Highways reported at 7.50am that emergency services, including Merseyside Police and Mersey Fire, have been in attendance, with National Highways Traffic Officers also on scene to assist with traffic management.
As a result of one of the vehicles catching fire, damage has been sustained to the road surface, which now requires resurfacing. Emergency works will be taking place throughout the morning once the vehicle has been recovered. There is currently no estimated time for the road reopening.
Diversion Route for Northbound Traffic
Road users heading northbound are advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol on road signs. The diversion route is as follows:
- Leave the M6 at J23 and at the roundabout take the second 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.
Police collision investigation works continued throughout the night under a full closure of the road in both directions. Motorists are advised to avoid the route while emergency services deal with the incident.
