M6, M55, M61 and M65 LIVE: Traffic updates as Easter bank holiday weekend begins
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M6, M55, M61, M65 traffic news: Heavy traffic as thousands start Bank Holiday getaway
Key Events
- 11am: Traffic building on M6
- 4pm: Two lanes closed after crash on M6 near Preston
Two lanes closed after crash on M6 northbound near Preston
The crash occurred near junction 31 (Samlesbury) at approximately 4pm.
Heavy congestion remains on M6 northbound between junctions J27 and J29
National Highways said normal traffic conditions are expected between 4.45pm and 5pm.
One hour delays on M6
Long delays and queueing traffic on M6 northbound at J31 (Samlesbury).
Congestion to J27 (Standish) with traffic also back to J8 (Chorley) of the M61.
One hour delays have been reported in the area.
Long delays on A585 Windy Harbour to Skippool due to temporary traffic lights
There are long delays on the A585 towards the Skippool roundabout this afternoon.
There were reports the temporary traffic lights were not working, but residents in the area said the issue has since been resolved.
Delays of over 40 minutes on M6
Severe delays of 44 minutes on M6 Northbound between J2 (Standish) and J31 (Samlesbury).
Average speed ten mph.
Breakdown advice
Nick Powell, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “With the Easter weekend being the first opportunity of the year for some real family time, it’s tempting to throw the bags in the boot and get going.
“But whether you’re visiting family or indulging in some retail therapy, it’s important to prepare your car for the journey before heading off.
“A few simple checks could stop car trouble from interrupting your plans so it’s well worth taking ten minutes to check your oil, coolant and windscreen wash levels.”
- Ensure you have plenty of fuel or EV charge in case of long delays and check all the lights are working.
- Check the tyre pressures (check when tyres are cold and increase pressure for heavy loads if necessary) and tread depth – not forgetting the spare if you have one.
- If you’re towing a caravan or trailer, check tyres for cracks or bulges, especially if they’ve been left standing for a while.
- As well as your snacks, drinks and road trip playlist, and car games, pack some must-haves for long journeys like a sat-nav or atlas, a fully charged mobile phone and any time-dependent medication in case of delays.
- Allow plenty of extra time for the journey as the roads will be busy. Check your route before you go and try to travel when it’s quieter – early morning or later evening are best if you want to beat the rush.
When are the best and worst times to travel this bank holiday?
According to the RAC, major roads will be busiest between 10am and 4pm on Good Friday.
Drivers are being urged to avoid these times if they want a smoother journey.
On Saturday 8 April, the busiest time to drive is estimated to be between 11am and 2pm.
Sunday is expected to see the least travel disruption with major roads particularly busy between 12pm and 2pm.
Come Monday 10 April, traffic will once again be at its worst between 12pm and 2pm.