The M65 motorway has been closed westbound between junctions 14 and 11 following a serious crash late Wednesday night, causing significant traffic disruptions across the region.
The closure began shortly before 9 pm on February 26, when Lancashire Police reported dealing with the aftermath of the collision at Junction 12. It quickly resulted in the closure of the motorway from Junction 14 at Boundary Mill roundabout to Junction 11 for Burnley, along with the entry slip roads at both Junctions 12 and 13.
According to reports from traffic monitoring system INRIX, the M65 remains closed for accident investigation work, with officials advising drivers to avoid the area due to severe delays. "M65 Westbound closed due to accident investigation work from J14 (Boundary Mill Roundabout) to J10 A671 Cavalry Way (Burnley / Padiham). Traffic is coping well," the report indicated.
Despite the intense frustrations for motorists, Lancashire Police are actively managing the situation. They have been turning around vehicles trapped within the closure zone and have requested patience from drivers. A police statement noted, "Due to a road traffic collision there is a complete closure from Junction 14 to Junction 11 along with the entry slip roads at Junctions 13 and 12. We are in the process of turning those vehicles around... Please be patient as we are doing this as quickly and as safely as possible."
The impact has reached beyond private vehicles; several bus services have been significantly delayed, adding to the chaos experienced on local roads as drivers look for alternative routes.
At 5:30 am on February 27, National Highways North West confirmed via their update on the closure, emphasizing, "Police remain in attendance to carry out a collision investigation. Thanks for your patience." Since then, no significant updates have been offered by either Lancashire Police or National Highways, leaving motorists and local residents awaiting news on the status of the closure.
With the M65 still closed more than ten hours after the initial crash, the area continues to feel the strain of this disruption, highlighting both the urgency of the situation and the importance of road traffic safety.