A serious collision on the M6 has resulted in significant disruption for motorists traveling in Cheshire. The motorway has been closed southbound between Junction 17 at Sandbach and Junction 16 at Crewe since March 24, 2025. Emergency services, including Cheshire Police and the North West Ambulance Service, have been at the scene since the incident was first reported shortly before 7 PM.
According to a spokesperson for National Highways, the M6 is closed southbound due to this serious collision, which has caused approximately two miles of congestion approaching the closure. The actual cause of the accident is still under investigation, with police conducting inquiries at the scene.
As a result of the closure, motorists have experienced significant delays, and traffic queues have extended back to Junction 19 for Knutsford. In efforts to mitigate the congestion, trapped traffic is being released through lane 4, allowing some vehicles to move past the scene.
Authorities have advised drivers to allow extra time for their journeys and to find alternative routes where possible. A detailed diversion route has been established which involves exiting the M6 at Junction 17, turning right onto the A534 towards Crewe, and following the prescribed signs to navigate back onto the M6 southbound.
The diversion entails taking the second exit at the Crewe Green Roundabout onto the A5020 University Way, proceeding onto David Whitby Way, and following the A500 Shavington Bypass to rejoin the M6 at Junction 16. This alternative route is marked with hollow circle symbols on road signs along the way.
Motorists have been warned of the potential for delays and are urged to remain patient while authorities work to resolve the situation. As of the latest updates, emergency services and National Highways are on scene, and traffic conditions are expected to remain challenging until the investigation concludes.
A spokesperson for National Highways stated, “If this closure affects your journey please allow extra time, and consider alternate routes if possible.” Further information can be sought from the National Highways website or through their 24/7 contact center team.
The M6’s impact on transportation in the area is significant, causing long delays for those traveling south through Cheshire. As investigations continue into the cause of the collision, authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of motorists while minimizing traffic disruption as much as possible.
At this point, it remains too early to predict when the road may reopen, as police and emergency services are diligently working on the scene. National Highways has reiterated the importance of following diversion routes and staying updated with traffic information.
The M6 east of junction 17 and junction 16 has become a crucial route for many commuters and transport operations in the region. With traffic expected to flow back to normal in due time, updates on the ongoing investigations will be necessary to provide clarity on the nature of the incident.
