The M6 motorway is closed in both directions near Stoke-on-Trent following a 'very serious' crash. The northbound carriageway is likely to remain closed into this afternoon, according to National Highways.
Crash details
The crash happened on the northbound carriageway between junctions 15 and 16 at around 4.10am on August 17. It involved three HGVs and a car, National Highways said.
The motorway was fully closed in both directions as police, firefighters and paramedics attended the scene. Three miles of congestion was reported by National Highways at 5.10am.
Investigation and diversions
Investigation work will take place on the northbound carriageway throughout the day. The southbound carriageway was also closed to allow for screens to be put up around the scene and for emergency services access. This has now been reopened, according to the AA Roadwatch.
The live traffic monitor reported: 'Road closed and severe delays due to serious crash on M6 Northbound between J15 A500 D Road (Stoke-On-Trent) and J16 A500 (Stoke-On-Trent / Crewe). Congestion to very slow traffic along the A500 diversion route back to Talke Roundabout.'
Heavy traffic and delays of around 15 minutes have been reported on the southbound carriageway between junction 16 and Three Mile Lane (Keele services), with average speeds of 15mph. Diversion routes have been put in place on both sides of the M6 using the exit and entry slip roads between junctions 15 and 16.
Further delays
National Highways said: 'Road users planning on using the M6 northbound towards J15 or southbound towards J16 this morning should expect delays to increase quickly and allow plenty of extra time for their journeys.'
This has resulted in further severe delays of 28 minutes on the A500 Westbound between A34 Talke Road (Talke Roundabout) and M6 junction 16, with average traffic speeds of 5MPH.
No further details on the crash, or details on injuries, have been released at this stage.
