M6 Traffic Update Today: Traffic on the M6 motorway is largely flowing as normal today, but motorists should be aware of several localized disruptions, lane closures, and planned overnight maintenance works that could cause delays. While earlier incidents have been cleared in some areas, restrictions remain near Preston, and National Highways has scheduled overnight closures across several sections of the motorway.
M6 Traffic Update Today: What Happened?
The M6 is experiencing a mix of residual delays from earlier incidents and planned maintenance operations.
A multi-vehicle collision near Junction 8 in the West Midlands temporarily closed two southbound lanes, while a separate HGV breakdown and fuel spillage near Junction 31 in Preston continues to affect traffic.
National Highways advises motorists to check live traffic conditions before travelling.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Lane Closures
Current lane restrictions include:
- M6 Southbound near Junction 31 (Preston): Lane 1 and the entry slip road remain restricted due to an HGV breakdown and a significant fuel spill.
- M6 Southbound near Junction 8 (West Midlands): All lanes have now reopened following an earlier collision, though minor delays remain possible.
Drivers should expect reduced speeds while clean-up and resurfacing work continues.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Affected Routes
Motorists may experience delays around:
- Junction 8 (West Midlands)
- Junction 31 (Preston)
- Junction 7 (Great Barr)
- Junction 15 (Hanchurch Interchange)
- Junction 26 (Orrell Interchange)
Traffic is expected to be busiest during the morning and evening rush hours.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Routes to Avoid
If possible, avoid:
- M6 Southbound near Junction 31 (Preston)
- M6 around Junction 8 (West Midlands) if residual queues remain
- Peak-hour congestion hotspots around Junctions 7, 15 and 26
Drivers travelling during commuter hours should allow extra time.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Alternative Routes
Depending on your destination, consider using:
- M61
- M55 (for Lancashire-bound traffic)
- M54 (West Midlands connections)
- A49
- A500
- Local diversion routes as directed by traffic management
Always follow official diversion signs where roadworks or incidents are in place.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Heavy Congestion & Delays
Although traffic has improved after earlier incidents, delays remain in some areas.
Residual congestion may continue:
- Southbound near Junction 8 after the earlier collision
- Near Junction 31 because of resurfacing work following the fuel spill
Additional delays are likely during evening commuter traffic.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Planned Overnight Closures
National Highways has scheduled overnight maintenance at the following locations:
- M6 Northbound: Junction 33 to Junction 34
- M6 Northbound: Junction 16 to Junction 17
- M6 Southbound: Junction 40 to Junction 39
Motorists travelling overnight should check diversion routes before departing.
M6 Traffic Update Today: How to Check Live Traffic
Drivers can stay informed by using:
- AA Roadwatch live traffic maps
- RAC Live Traffic Reports
- National Highways traffic updates
- Local radio traffic bulletins
Live traffic conditions may change quickly due to accidents, weather, or emergency roadworks.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Safety Advice for Drivers
Authorities remind motorists to:
- Slow down when approaching lane closures.
- Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Follow overhead electronic signs and diversion routes.
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes in congested areas.
These measures help improve safety for both road users and emergency workers.
M6 Traffic Update Today: Helpline Numbers
For assistance and emergencies:
- Emergency: 999
- National Highways Customer Contact Centre: 0300 123 5000
- National Highways Traffic Information: Visit the official National Highways website for live updates.
- AA Breakdown Assistance: 03330 046 046
- RAC Breakdown Assistance: 0333 2000 999
