Emergency Response and Major M60 Closure Leave Motorists Stuck in Long Queues, What Travelers Need To Know

Emergency Response and Major M60 Closure Leave Motorists Stuck in Long Queues, What Travelers Need To Know

Emergency Response and Major M60 Closure Leave Motorists Stuck in Long Queues, What Travelers Need To Know

A major collision on the M60 motorway in Greater Manchester, close to Stockport and Bredbury, has led to the complete closure of the clockwise carriageway between Junctions 25 and 26, causing severe travel disruption for commuters, tourists and business drivers alike. Emergency services, including police, ambulance crews and an air ambulance team, were at the scene within minutes after the crash involving two vehicles early this morning.

The closure has created extensive queues stretching back to Denton Island, and is expected to have a knock‑on effect on journeys across the region throughout the day. Motorists were urged to plan alternative routes or allow substantial extra time due to the ongoing response and recovery efforts.

What Happened: Collision and Emergency Response

At approximately 8.40 am on Monday 16 February 2026, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and North West Ambulance Service responded to reports of a serious two‑car collision on the M60 clockwise carriageway between Junctions 25 (Brinnington) and 26 (Bredbury). Both drivers involved in the collision were treated at the scene and subsequently transported to hospital by road ambulances. One of the individuals was recorded as sustaining serious injuries, prompting the landing of a air ambulance in Bredbury to support paramedics.

National Highways confirmed the full closure of the clockwise side of the M60 in the vicinity of Stockport to allow emergency crews to work safely and manage traffic. Traffic officers were also deployed to assist with on‑site management and diversion signage.

Impact on Travel: Delays, Diversions and Disruptions

The closure of the M60 clockwise between Junctions 25 and 26 has generated significant travel delays:

Severe congestion has built up with traffic backed up to Junction 23 for Ashton‑under‑Lyne.

Motorists approaching the closure point are encountering delays of 40 minutes or more compared with normal travel times.

Roads in the surrounding area, including the A560, are experiencing increased pressure from diverted traffic.

Official Diversion Route

National Highways and Greater Manchester Police advised the following diversion:

Exit the M60 clockwise at Junction 25.

At the adjacent roundabout, take the third exit onto the A560 towards Reddish.

Continue on the A560 to the A560/M60 Junction 26 interchange.

Rejoin the M60 clockwise at Junction 26.

Traffic authorities stressed that this route will help reduce congestion around the closure and keep vehicles moving safely.

Human Interest: Passengers and Road Users Affected

The impact of the closure extends beyond usual commuter frustration. For tourists and leisure travellers, especially those heading to the Lake District, the Peak District, or onward to northwest England and Scotland, the sudden closure disrupted plans and added stress to journeys. Holidaymakers arriving in Manchester and intending to catch onward connections by road reported having to rethink routes and schedules.

Business travellers relying on the M60 for timely access to Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool also faced significant disruption. Meetings, flights and connections were impacted as usual drive times more than doubled in places due to congestion and detours.

Step‑by‑Step Travel Advice for Today

Travel disruption on major motorways can be confusing and stressful, especially when involving emergency response. Here’s a practical guide for motorists caught up in or approaching the area:

Step 1: Check Real‑Time Traffic Updates
Use official sources such as National Highways Traffic England and local police channels for live closure updates and travel advisories.

Step 2: Adjust Journey Plans Immediately
If the M60 is part of your intended route, follow diversion signage carefully and consider using GPS apps that reflect real‑time conditions.

Step 3: Allow Extra Time
Expect travel times to be significantly longer. If you have flights, trains or scheduled appointments, notify relevant parties of possible delays.

Step 4: Monitor Public Transport Alternatives
For those flexible with travel mode, local rail or bus services may provide an alternative path to your destination without motorway delays.

Step 5: Stay Calm and Safe
In heavy traffic or long queues, maintain safe following distances, avoid frequent lane changes, and stay hydrated if stuck.

Tourist and Visitor Considerations

For visitors unfamiliar with Greater Manchester roads:

Pre‑Trip Planning: Check travelengland.com before departure for updates on motorway closures and congestion.

Accommodation Adjustments: If delays impact check‑in times in Manchester or other destinations, communicate with hotels early.

Sightseeing Strategies: Consider urban transport options or schedule city exploration around peak motorway travel times.

Official Agency Roles and Response Efforts

National Highways

National Highways maintained traffic management and signage, assisting emergency services in creating a safe operating area.

Greater Manchester Police

GMP established incident control, directed closures, and supported ambulance operations on scene. Officers are also managing diversion routes and ensuring public safety.

North West Ambulance Service and Air Ambulance

Ambulance crews provided urgent medical treatment at the crash scene before transporting two individuals to hospital. An air ambulance helicopter landed nearby to support paramedic teams and ensure swift treatment.

Wider Road Network and Congestion Effects

Closures on major motorways like the M60 often cause ripple effects on surrounding roads, as drivers seek alternative routes. In particular, the A560, A57 and A6 corridors are expected to see higher volumes of traffic through Stockport, Denton and adjacent towns. Junctions connecting to the M62 and M66 may also experience irregular traffic flows as vehicles reroute.

Key Points in Bullets

A serious two‑car crash near J25–J26 of the M60 has led to full closure of the clockwise carriageway.

Emergency services including police, ambulance and air ambulance responded rapidly to the incident.

Two people injured — one with serious injuries, both taken to hospital.

Severe travel delays with queues back to Junction 23 (Ashton‑under‑Lyne).

Diversion in place via the A560 connecting back to the M60 at Junction 26.

Impact includes commuter, tourist and business travel disruption.

Motorists advised to check live traffic reports and plan alternative routes.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated

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