Drivers faced significant disruptions on the M6 motorway this Easter Saturday, April 19, 2025, after a police-led incident prompted a closure between Telford and Stafford. The northbound carriageway was shut down from Junction 12 to Junction 13, beginning around 6:30 AM BST, leading to substantial traffic delays.
According to National Highways, the closure was necessary due to an unspecified police incident, and the duration of the closure remained uncertain. A spokesperson for the agency stated, "Due to the nature of the incident we're unable to provide a likely duration for this closure at this time." As a result, road users were advised to avoid the area and follow diversion signs.
By 9 AM, the situation had improved slightly, with the road reopening shortly before that time. However, residual delays of approximately 45 minutes persisted, along with a five-mile tailback on the motorway. Traffic was still congested as drivers attempted to resume their usual routes.
National Highways confirmed that the Staffordshire Police incident on the M6 northbound near Cannock had been resolved. Despite the reopening of the road, officials warned that residual delays would take time to clear. The agency noted, "Residual delays of 45 minutes above usual journey times on the M6 northbound approaching Stafford."
Traffic congestion was not limited to the motorway itself; alternative routes also saw increased traffic as drivers were diverted around the closure. Google’s traffic map indicated dark red lines at Gailey and Penkridge, showing heavy congestion as northbound traffic was funneled off the M6.
In a bid to manage the situation, National Highways implemented a diversion plan. Drivers were instructed to exit the M6 at Junction 12 and take the A5 westbound. They were then to continue until reaching the junction with the A449 at Gailey, where they would take the exit to the A449 northbound to rejoin the M6 at Junction 13.
As the morning progressed, traffic caught up in the closure was reportedly being turned around. National Highways indicated that there was approximately one mile of traffic in the closure across four lanes. The agency communicated on social media, stating, "Traffic in the closure will be turned around from the rear to return to J12. There's 1 mile of traffic in 4 lanes to clear so, sadly, this will take time to complete."
The incident and subsequent traffic chaos serve as a reminder of the potential for unexpected events on major roadways, particularly during busy holiday periods. With Easter Saturday traditionally a high-traffic day, many motorists found themselves grappling with the delays and detours.
As the situation developed, National Highways continued to update the public on traffic conditions, urging drivers to remain patient as they navigated the aftermath of the incident. The agency reassured motorists that they were working diligently to clear the backlog and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
In summary, while the M6 has reopened, the effects of the police incident will linger as drivers contend with ongoing delays. As always, it highlights the importance of staying informed about road conditions and being prepared for unexpected disruptions while traveling.
