M61 closed in both directions due to police incident near Bolton

A "police incident" on the M61 northbound between junctions 4 (Bolton) and 5 (Westhoughton) forced the motorway to close in both directions this evening (March 5).

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that a man has been taken to hospital after being injured in the incident.

A GMP spokesperson said: “Police were called at around 4.35pm this afternoon to reports of a man falling from a bridge on the M61.

"A man has been taken to hospital."

"A temporary lane closure is in place on the northbound carriageway and is expected to be lifted shortly."

Highways England has confirmed that the motorway has now fully reopened.

A spokesperson for Highways said: "The M61 in Greater Manchester is closed northbound between J4 Watergate Lane Interchange (Atherton, Walkden, Farnworth (A6)) to J5 Hunger Hill Interchange (Westhoughton, Hindley, Wigan A58).

"This is due to a police led incident. Highways England Traffic Officers are on scene providing support. Please be aware that lane 3 (of 3) is closed on the southbound carriageway past the scene."

"A diversion for northbound traffic is available. Exit the motorway J4 and follow the route marked with a solid triangle symbol on local road signs. This will route traffic via the A6 north to Chequerbent.

"At the roundabout with the A58 take the third exit and head east on the A58 to rejoin the M61 at J5.

"Road users intending on travelling the area are advised to allow extra time for their journey.

"If possible consider alternative routes (if travelling from Manchester to Preston and destinations further north please consider using the M62 west and M6 north)."

North West Motorway Police warned that the M61 carriageway closures ‘may be on for some time’.

Motorists were advised to find an alternative route.

A spokesperson for North West Motorway Police said: "Traffic on both carriageways brought to stop due to a police incident.

"Closures may be on for some time, please take alternative routes.

"Traffic is being taken off at J4 M61 northbound."