National Highways is to begin a programme of overnight closures on the M6 at Thelwall Viaduct as it prepares to introduce a 24/7 contraflow as part of a long-term maintenance scheme.
The closures, between junctions 20 at Lymm and 21 at Woolston, will allow a new traffic management layout to be installed ahead of the main phase of works.
The northbound carriageway will be closed overnight on 28 and 29 September, followed by southbound closures on 30 September and 1 October. A further northbound closure is scheduled for 11 October, with all closures operating between 10pm and 5am.
During the overnight closures, traffic will be diverted via the M56, M60 and M62, with drivers advised to follow signed diversion routes.
National Highways said the works were required to support the maintenance programme and help maintain the safety and reliability of the route.
The initial traffic-management works are scheduled to be completed ahead of the introduction of a 24/7 contraflow on October 12, 2026.
The contraflow is expected to remain in place through to winter 2027/28 while the longer-term works at the viaduct are undertaken.
The scheme forms part of ongoing maintenance activity at Thelwall Viaduct, a key strategic route carrying the M6 across the Manchester Ship Canal and connecting the North West motorway network.
(Picture: National Highways)
