Drivers across Lancashire are facing major disruption after a serious collision triggered a lorry fire on the M6, leading to the full closure of the motorway in both directions.
The incident took place between Junction 27 (A5209 Crow Orchard Road, Standish) and Junction 28 (B5256 Leyland Way, Leyland). Emergency services – including Lancashire Police, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and North West Ambulance Service – are currently at the scene.
The latest update from traffic monitoring service Inrix confirms: “M6 in both directions blocked, severe delays due to lorry fire from J27 A5209 Crow Orchard Road (Standish) to J28 B5256 Leyland Way (Leyland).”
National Highways also issued a statement warning drivers: “#M6 in both directions between J27 #Standish #GreaterManchester and J28 #Leyland #Lancashire. ROAD CLOSED Due to a serious collision and vehicle fire.”
Diversions in Place
Northbound Diversion (Hollow Diamond Symbol):
- Exit M6 at J27
- Take the third exit at the roundabout to join A5209
- Continue through Standish
- At the A49 junction, turn left
- Head north on A49 to the roundabout with A581
- Take second exit onto A581 eastbound
- At the B5252 roundabout, take the first exit
- Continue to Euxton Lane roundabout — take the first exit
- Follow Euxton Lane to Central Avenue junction
- Turn right onto Central Avenue (northbound)
- Continue onto Dawson Lane
- At traffic lights with A49, turn right
- Follow A49 to B5256 junction
- Turn left onto B5256 westbound to rejoin M6 at J28
Southbound Diversion (Hollow Square Symbol):
- Exit M6 at J28
- Turn right onto B5256 at the end of the slip road
- At the A49 crossroads, turn right
- Head south on A49
- At the B5248 junction, turn left onto Dawson Lane
- Continue to Central Avenue and turn left onto Euxton Lane
- Head east to the B5252 roundabout and take the third exit
- At the next roundabout, take the third exit onto the A581 westbound
- Continue to the A49 roundabout and take the first exit
- Follow A49 to Standish
- At the A5209 junction, turn right to rejoin the M6 at J27
The motorway closure has already caused substantial congestion, and traffic is rapidly building in surrounding areas. National Highways is urging drivers to avoid the area if possible and follow official diversion routes.
There’s currently no estimated time for reopening, as emergency services remain on site dealing with the aftermath of the fire and collision.
