Long delays expected on M56 in Cheshire this weekend due to closure and diversion

Motorists using the M56 through Cheshire have been advised to plan their journeys in advance of the second weekend closure of the motorway near Runcorn.

The motorway will be shut in both directions between junctions 11 and 12, from 9 pm on Friday, 19 May, to 6 am on Monday, 22 May.

This closure, affecting travellers to and from North Wales, forms part of National Highways’ £27 million A533 bridge replacement project. The project is nearing completion after 18 months of work.

National Highways has warned drivers to expect lengthy delays over the weekend on both the east and westbound approaches to the bridge demolition works.

In a statement, they expressed gratitude to drivers for their patience and support. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

National Highways project manager Sam Whitfield said, “Demolishing the old A533 bridge, which is right next to the new one, was always going to be a delicate and complicated operation and the safety of road users is our key concern.” ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

He added, “With the motorway and new bridge closed again this weekend, we’re urging drivers to plan ahead, check for congestion on the diversion routes before setting off and leave a little bit of extra time for journeys – or avoid this section of the motorway altogether if possible.” ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

Clearly-signed diversions will be in place during both the bridge and motorway closures. Full information is available on the dedicated project webpage. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

National Highways also advises drivers to check traffic conditions before setting out on journeys, with live traffic information available at www.trafficengland.com and through their 24-7 customer contact centre at 0300 123 5000. Updates will also be posted to National Highways’ regional Twitter feed, @HighwaysNWest. ‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​