On May 9, 2025, traffic on the M66 motorway was halted in both directions due to a serious police-led incident that unfolded around Junction 1. The closure affected the stretch between the A56 for Edenfield and J1 for Ramsbottom, causing significant delays for motorists.
According to reports from Greater Manchester Police, officers were dispatched at approximately 2 PM after receiving concerns for the welfare of a woman. The situation prompted a swift response from both police and paramedics, leading to the closure of the motorway as they worked to address the incident.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with one individual stating that the motorway was at a "complete standstill." Another motorist noted the presence of an air ambulance at the scene, which heightened concerns regarding the severity of the situation. "Sat on M66. Air ambulance landed half mile or so up ahead. Could be here a while," the motorist shared on social media.
As the situation developed, National Highways reported delays of up to 30 minutes on the affected stretch of road, with traffic speeds dropping to a crawl of just five miles per hour. The AA Traffic News echoed these concerns, labeling the delays as "severe" and advising motorists to seek alternative routes.
By late afternoon, the police confirmed that the woman had been transported to a hospital with serious injuries. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police stated, "At around 2 PM today, officers responded to reports regarding the concern for the welfare of a female, around junction 1 of the M66. She has been taken to hospital with serious injuries, and roads have now been reopened."
Despite the reopening of the M66, residual delays persisted in the area, with reports indicating that motorists could still expect delays lasting up to 29 minutes. Traffic data company Inrix noted that while all lanes had been reopened, the earlier incident had caused significant disruptions.
As the evening approached, traffic conditions began to improve, and National Highways announced that the M66 was fully operational again. However, they cautioned that residual delays of at least 20 minutes remained as the traffic flow gradually returned to normal.
The incident on the M66 highlights the importance of swift emergency response in critical situations. With police and paramedics working diligently to ensure the welfare of the injured woman, the collaboration between emergency services and traffic management was vital in mitigating further complications on the motorway.
In the wake of the incident, local authorities and traffic agencies have reiterated the need for drivers to remain vigilant and patient during such unforeseen events. Road safety remains a top priority, and the impact of incidents like this serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of travel.
As details continue to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident, the community remains hopeful for the recovery of the injured woman. The M66, a critical artery for traffic in the region, will undoubtedly be monitored closely to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Motorists are advised to stay updated on traffic conditions and to heed any warnings or notifications from local authorities. The cooperation of the public during such incidents is crucial in ensuring safety and efficiency on the roads.
As the day concludes, the M66 incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life on the roads and the importance of community support during emergencies.
