Long delays are expected along lengthy stretches of the M61 after a coach burst into flames with firefighters and emergency services racing to the scene this evening
The M61 has closed after a coach burst into flames sparking travel chaos.
National Highways confirmed traffic was stopped and a closure was in place due to the blaze. Firefighters and police were seen at the site of the blaze.
Traffic updates said there were “long delays” this evening with congestion being backed up on the M60 anti-clockwise to J17 for Prestwich. Mirror affiliate the Manchester Evening News said road users are advised to follow the solid diversion symbol on road signs:
- Leave the M61 southbound at junction 13.
- At M60 J13/A572 roundabout, take the second exit onto A575 northbound and follow for 1.9 km.
- At A575/A580 junction, turn left on to A580 eastbound and follow for 2.3 km.
- At A580/A577 junction, turn right onto the A577 northbound and follow for 1.5 km.
- At A577/A5082 junction, turn right onto A5082 northbound and follow for 2.2 km.
- At A5082/A6 junction, turn left onto A6 westbound and follow.
- At A6/Watergate Lane Roundabout, take the second exit leading to M61.
- At Watergate Lane/M61 J4 roundabout, take the first exit and re-join the M61 northbound.
National Highways said in a statement: “The M61 in Greater Manchester is closed southbound between J1 and J2 (M60/ A666) near Bolton due to a coach fire. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are on scene. National Highways Traffic Officers are in attendance assisting with traffic management.”
Traffic service Inrix said in a statement: “M61 Northbound blocked, long delays due to vehicle fire from J1 M60 J15 (Swinton Interchange) to J2. Congestion to the M60 anticlockwise as traffic queues from J17 (Prestwich) and the M60 clockwise as traffic queues from J13 (Worsley).”