Five-vehicle pile-up near Manchester Airport closes M56 for nearly four hours
A lorry, flatbed truck and three cars were involved in a crash between junctions seven and six. No one was trapped but delays peaked at 45 minutes. The motorway fully reopened at 1.40pm.
Motorists were urged to "stay away" from the M56 near Manchester Airport after a five-vehicle pile-up on the eastbound carriageway on Wednesday morning (September 16).
All traffic was stopped between junction seven (Bowdon) and junction six (Hale) from around 9.50am. Motorway cameras showed huge queues building.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed five vehicles were involved: one lorry, one flatbed truck and three cars. The incident commander confirmed no occupants were trapped.
The fire service said: "We would ask the public to avoid the motorway at this time, as well as the area around junction 7. Live traffic updates show very heavy traffic. Please check before you travel and look for alternative routes."
Three lanes remained closed for around two hours, with delays peaking at 45 minutes. Two lanes reopened at around 1pm and the motorway was fully clear by 1.40pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where did the M56 crash happen?
- The collision occurred on the eastbound carriageway of the M56 between junction seven for Bowdon and junction six for Hale, near Manchester Airport.
- How many vehicles were involved in the collision?
- Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that five vehicles were involved, specifically a lorry, a flatbed truck, and three cars. No occupants were trapped.
- Is the M56 eastbound open now?
- Yes, all lanes on the M56 eastbound were fully reopened by approximately 1:40 pm on Wednesday afternoon, allowing traffic to return to normal.