M6, Midlands: Long Tailbacks and Road Closures on Boxing Day – What Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 27, 2025

Travelers on the M6 northbound in the Midlands are facing significant delays today, December 27, 2025, following a two-car crash between Junction 15 (Newcastle-under-Lyme) and Junction 16 (Crewe and Nantwich). The crash has caused major traffic congestion, with six miles of tailbacks and delays of up to one hour. The incident is creating a travel nightmare for many, particularly as people return home after the Christmas holiday.

Two-Car Crash Causes Traffic Chaos on M6 Northbound

The crash occurred just before 10:30 am on the M6 northbound, causing two lanes to be blocked. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene to manage the situation and clear the wreckage. The collision, which involved two cars, has led to significant delays, with reports indicating that traffic is moving at a crawl due to the lane closures.

According to National Highways West Midlands, the situation worsened as the morning progressed, with delays increasing to an hour and 10 minutes by 11 am. The congestion now stretches for approximately six miles, severely impacting the flow of traffic between Junction 15 and Junction 16, which connects Newcastle-under-Lyme with Crewe and Nantwich.

Impact on Travelers and Businesses

The M6 is a key route for both business travelers and tourists heading to and from the Midlands, especially as people return home after the holiday period. The significant delays will likely affect both local commuters and those traveling longer distances. With the Christmas break still ongoing for many, the roads are packed with holiday traffic, and the crash has only added to the congestion.

Business travelers relying on the M6 to reach meetings, events, or airports will need to plan for longer travel times and potential disruptions. For tourists, especially those visiting key destinations in the Midlands or North West England, the delays will likely affect travel times to popular attractions and accommodations.

In particular, tourists traveling to Birmingham or heading towards the Lake District and Wales could see delays extending their journeys, particularly during peak traffic hours. The crash has caused ripple effects that have reached beyond the northbound M6, with some slow-moving traffic reported southbound from Sandbach to Stoke.

Diversions and Traffic Alternatives

To help ease the flow of traffic, National Highways has implemented a diversion route. Drivers are being directed to use alternative roads to bypass the affected section of the M6, but as expected, these diversions are also experiencing congestion due to the high volume of vehicles. Travelers are advised to follow the signposted routes to avoid being caught in the backup.

While some vehicles have been able to move through the diversions, others are still stuck in slow-moving traffic. Traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze are providing real-time updates and may help travelers find the quickest alternate routes.

Steps to Take When Traveling on the M6 During Peak Times

1. Check for Traffic Updates: Before heading out, be sure to check for real-time updates on traffic conditions, especially from National Highways and local news stations.
2. Avoid Peak Travel Times: If possible, try to avoid traveling between 10 am and 7 pm when traffic is expected to be the heaviest due to post-Christmas return traffic.
3. Allow Extra Time: With major delays expected, ensure you leave plenty of extra time for your journey, particularly if you’re heading to a business meeting or an airport.
4. Consider Alternative Routes: The M6 southbound may also see delays, so look into alternative routes like the A34, A417, or M56 to avoid the worst congestion.
5. Stay Updated on Diversions: If you’re following the diversion routes, check for updates on road conditions as diversion routes can also become congested during busy travel periods.

Looking Ahead: Continued Travel Challenges

While today’s M6 crash is the most immediate concern, business travelers and tourists should be prepared for continued disruptions as the holiday travel season continues. The M6 is expected to remain busy, particularly with more traffic anticipated on the 29th and 30th of December as people travel back to work or return from holiday trips.

National Highways has confirmed that traffic should clear by early evening, but travelers should expect ongoing slowdowns throughout the day.

How to Stay Safe During Winter Travel

Winter travel in the UK brings specific challenges, including unpredictable weather and shorter daylight hours. Here are some tips to stay safe during winter journeys:

• Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is equipped for winter conditions, including proper tire pressure, antifreeze, and a full gas tank.
• Be Prepared for Weather Conditions: Fog, rain, or snow could impact visibility and road conditions. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes.
• Carry Emergency Supplies: Always have essential supplies, such as water, snacks, blankets, and a mobile phone charger, in case you get stuck in traffic or have an unexpected delay.

Conclusion: Stay Patient and Plan Ahead

As Boxing Day travel comes to a close and post-Christmas journeys begin, travelers on the M6 should remain patient and plan for longer travel times. While the two-car crash between Junction 15 and Junction 16 has caused significant delays, following real-time updates and adjusting travel times can help minimize frustration. With alternatives in place and an emphasis on safe travel, those heading out today can still make the most of their journey—whether it’s a business trip or a well-earned holiday escape.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated