M6 roadworks causing weekend nightmare at junction 32-33

A traffic map of the M6 taken at 4.50pm on Sunday, October 22

Ongoing roadworks at a busy section of motorway are causing regular delays, and frustration, for people travelling.

There have been lane closures between junction 32 and 33 on the M6 northbound since the beginning of September with the work described as essential by National Highways.

This is resulting in long delays at weekends especially. At the time of writing, there are significant delays between the two junctions and an average speed of approximately 10mph, with approximately nine miles of queues, according to traffic reports.

The impact of the delays is also being felt on the A6 northbound through both Barton and Garstang as people seek diversions from the queues.

The government agency said the work is essential as a short section which passes over Stewart’s Wood bridge needs waterproofing and resurfacing to ensure journeys remain safe and reliable. The work is scheduled for completion by the end of October.

A spokesperson for National Highways said ahead of the work beginning: “Our essential repair work will require the closure of two lanes of northbound traffic on the M6 during the day, and three lanes overnight, between 8pm and 6am. These measures will ensure the continued safety of road users and our staff during the work.

“The lanes that remain in use will be narrower than usual and subject to a 50mph speed limit which is reduced to 40mph whilst driving through the working area. We will also need six overnight closures of the M6 northbound carriageway between junctions 32 and 33 during this two-month period.”