Jackknifed lorry shuts M6 southbound near Lancaster - latest updates
Police are asking drivers to avoid the motorway until the incident is cleared...
There are long delays on the M6 after a lorry jackknifed and spilled fuel on the motorway near Lancaster.
The lorry has jackknifed across all three lanes, said National Highways, and southbound is currently closed between junctions 36 (Kirkby Lonsdale) and 34 (Bay Gateway, Lancaster).
Diversions are in place along the A65 and A683 towards Lancaster.
Southbound traffic is reportedly backed up for 18 miles to Killington Lake Services near junction 37.
Northbound traffic was also held but has since been released, however, some delays remain on the carriageway.
National Highways has issued an update saying the fuel spillage is adding “further complexity to the scene”.
The agency said: “The M6 southbound between J35 and J34 in Lancashire is closed following a collision involving a heavy goods vehicle which has jack‑knifed across all three lanes.
“The incident, which began shortly after 10.15am has resulted in a full carriageway closure while emergency services respond, with a reported fuel spillage adding further complexity to the scene.
“National Highways is working closely with police and emergency services at the scene to support their response and ensure the safety of all road users.”
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police added: “We are currently dealing with a road traffic collision on the M6.
“As a result we have closed the motorway southbound between J34 and J35.
“There is currently heavy traffic at Junction 34 and the Bay Gateway and will take some time to clear.
“We are working to reopen the motorway as soon as possible. Please avoid the area if you can.”
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A6 congested with diverted traffic
Drivers diverting off the motorway onto the A6 through Carnforth are reportedly facing heavy traffic along Lancaster Road and Scotland Road this afternoon.
Diversion route
Road users are advised to follow the solid diamond diversion symbol visible on local road signs.
- Exit the M6 southbound at J36 and join the A65 towards Kirkby Lonsdale.
- Take a right on to the A683 towards Lancaster.
- Continue on the A683 through Nether, Burrow, Tunstall, Melling, Hornby, Claughton and Caton and re-join M6 at J34.
Drivers taking this route are advised there is a bridge with a 4.7m / 15'6" height restriction at Caton.
More to follow...