Wigan, Greater Manchester — The M6 motorway remains closed in both directions today, January 16, after a woman was found dead on the carriageway near Wigan. The shutdown affects traffic between Junction 26 (Orrell Interchange)and Junction 23 (East Lancs Road), creating major disruption across Greater Manchester and surrounding areas. Emergency services continue to work at the scene, and National Highways has warned that the motorway is likely to stay shut for most of the day. This is reported by The WP Times, citing official statements from Greater Manchester Police and National Highways.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were called to the M6 at 7:42am following reports of concerns for a woman’s welfare. Officers attended the location, and the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. A police spokesperson said that formal identification has not yet taken place and added that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. Because the incident is police-led, both carriageways were closed to allow investigations and safety procedures to be carried out
National Highways reported significant congestion building on approaches to the closed section. As of late morning, drivers were facing delays of up to 45 minutes northbound and around 20 minutes southbound, with queues stretching for up to four miles. Traffic officers are on site to manage the situation and assist stranded motorists.
In addition to the motorway closure, Downall Green Road in Ashton-in-Makerfield has also been shut in connection with the incident. Local roads around Wigan, Haydock and Ashton are experiencing heavy traffic as drivers attempt to avoid the affected stretch of the M6.
Official diversion routes have been put in place. Motorists are being directed to use:
- The M58 motorway
- The A570 Rainford Bypass
- The A580 East Lancs Road
National Highways has advised drivers to follow signed diversions rather than relying solely on satellite navigation systems, which may suggest unsuitable local roads.
At this stage, there is no confirmed time for reopening. A National Highways spokesperson said there is currently no estimate for when the road will be cleared and reopened to traffic. Authorities expect disruption to continue throughout the day and potentially into the evening.
Practical advice for drivers today
If you need to travel in the area on January 16, officials recommend the following:
- Avoid the M6 between J23 and J26 if at all possible
- Delay non-essential journeys
- Allow at least 45–60 minutes extra travel time
- Check live traffic updates before setting off
- Use public transport where available
- Follow official diversion signs, not sat-nav shortcuts
- For long-distance journeys, consider alternative motorways such as the M62 or M61
Drivers heading to Manchester Airport, Liverpool, Warrington or Preston should plan ahead, as connecting routes are also becoming congested.
What to do if you are already in the area
- Stay in the signed lanes and follow traffic officer instructions
- Do not attempt U-turns or illegal manoeuvres
- Use service areas on the M58 or A580 to wait for updates
- Keep fuel levels sufficient in case of long queues
- Monitor updates from National Highways and local radio
The situation on the M6 remains ongoing, and further updates are expected once police investigations are completed and the motorway can be safely reopened.
Connecting routes across the region are also becoming increasingly congested as traffic is diverted away from the closed section of the M6.
Advice for drivers already in the area
Motorists who are currently caught up in the disruption are being urged to follow official guidance. Drivers should remain in clearly marked lanes and follow instructions from traffic officers on site. Attempting U-turns, reversing on slip roads or making illegal manoeuvres is both dangerous and likely to cause further delays. Where possible, drivers are advised to use nearby service areas on the M58 or along the A580 to wait for updated information. Keeping fuel levels sufficient and ensuring mobile devices are charged is recommended in case of extended queues.
Road users should continue to monitor live updates from National Highways, local radio stations and official traffic information channels for the latest developments. The situation on the M6 remains ongoing, and further updates are expected once police investigations have been completed and the motorway can be safely reopened.
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