M61 traffic updates and diversions after lorry crash shuts motorway near Bolton

The M61 is closed southbound between Bolton and Manchester after a rush hour crash this morning (Tuesday, June 7).

Emergency Services are currently on scene and all traffic is being diverted after the crash between junctions 3 and 2 near Kearsley.

A spokesman for National Highways said: “The M61 is closed southbound between J3 and J2 (Kearsley) due to a collision between a car and a HGV.

"There are 2.5 miles of congestion on approach, causing 50 minute delays above normal travel time.

There are long queues on the M61 southbound after a crash near Kearsley this morning (Tuesday, June 7)placeholder image
There are long queues on the M61 southbound after a crash near Kearsley this morning (Tuesday, June 7)

“If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time.

"Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey.

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Diversion Route

Road users are advised to follow the below diversion route if heading southbound.

- Leave M61 southbound at Jct 3 and follow A666 eastbound

- Leave A666 eastbound at A666/A5036 Rbt and complete a U-turn to rejoin A666 westbound.

- Continue along the A666 westbound and rejoin M61 southbound at Jct 2.

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