Major Closure on M60 Motorway Due to Multi-Vehicle Collision
The M60 motorway, a key route in Greater Manchester, was shut in both directions for over 24 hours following a severe multi-vehicle collision. The incident occurred between junctions 27 at the Portwood roundabout and junction one, just before 11:30 am on July 7. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene to manage the situation and assist those involved.
Ongoing Emergency Response
National Highways, the organisation responsible for maintaining major roads in England, issued a reminder that the M60 remained closed in both directions between junctions 25 and 1 near Stockport and Bredbury. This closure was due to the ongoing emergency works following the crash. The agency continued to monitor the situation closely and provided regular updates to drivers.
Despite the initial disruption, progress was made throughout the day. At 1:46 pm, National Highways announced that the anticlockwise carriageway had reopened. However, one lane remained closed as barrier repairs continued. This partial reopening allowed some traffic to resume but did not fully restore normal conditions on the motorway.
Full Reopening of M60
By 5:19 pm, another update confirmed that the clockwise carriageway had also been reopened. All three lanes were now operational, marking a significant step toward restoring normal traffic flow. However, drivers were warned about potential delays. The congestion extended over three-and-a-half miles, particularly near the anticlockwise lane closure. This highlighted the lasting impact of the crash on local traffic patterns.
Impact on Commuters and Travelers
The prolonged closure of the M60 caused considerable disruption for commuters, businesses, and travellers in the region. With the motorway serving as a vital link between several towns and cities, its closure forced many to seek alternative routes, leading to increased congestion on surrounding roads. Local authorities urged drivers to plan their journeys carefully and consider using public transport where possible.
Emergency services worked tirelessly to clear the accident site and ensure the safety of all road users. The multi-vehicle collision underscored the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance, especially during peak travel times.
Continued Monitoring and Updates
Although the main sections of the M60 have now reopened, National Highways continues to monitor the area for any further issues. The organisation encourages drivers to stay informed through official channels for the latest updates. This includes checking social media platforms, local news outlets, and road condition alerts.
The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly road conditions can change and the importance of staying alert while driving. It also highlights the critical role of emergency services and road maintenance teams in managing such situations effectively.
As the area returns to normal, the focus will shift to ensuring that lessons are learned from this event. Improved safety measures, better communication with drivers, and enhanced response protocols may be considered to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
