The M6 motorway in Greater Manchester has been closed in both directions following the tragic discovery of a deceased woman. The closure spans from junction 23 at the East Lancs Road to junction 26 at the M58 Orrell interchange. The incident occurred on the southbound carriageway between junctions 25 and 24 near Ashton-in-Makerfield. Authorities, led by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Traffic, are managing the situation, and the affected stretch of the M6 is anticipated to remain shut for the day.
The exact time for the motorway’s reopening is currently unknown. Both northbound and southbound lanes between junction 23 and junction 26 have been shut down, leading to significant traffic disruptions. The M61 is experiencing heavy traffic as drivers seek alternate routes to bypass the M6 closure, causing delays of up to 15 minutes.
To navigate around the closure, a diversion route has been established using the M58, the A570 Rainford Bypass, and the A580 East Lancs Road. Additionally, Downall Green Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield is closed due to the ongoing incident. Traffic cameras show vehicles at a standstill between junctions 23 and 26, and Google Maps displays the congestion in the surrounding areas.
Greater Manchester Police has confirmed the tragic event, stating that a woman was found dead at the scene with no suspicious circumstances reported. The closure is being managed by emergency services, causing delays of up to 45 minutes northbound and 20 minutes southbound, with several miles of congestion in both directions. National Highways has indicated that the M6 is expected to remain closed throughout the day due to the ongoing police-led incident.