M61 Motorway, Lancashire: Police Confirm Road Reopened After Major Traffic Incident – Full Update for Commuters and Tourists

Published on February 26, 2026

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The M61 motorway in Lancashire was closed in both directions yesterday evening, causing significant delays and tailbacks. The closure, which affected motorists traveling northbound towards Junction 8, was due to a police-led operation prompted by a safety concern. Motorists were urged to avoid the area as authorities worked to resolve the situation. After hours of disruption, Lancashire Police have confirmed that the motorway has reopened, allowing traffic to flow once again.

Police Statement and Road Reopening

According to Lancashire Police, the closure of the M61 was initiated in response to a safety concern that required immediate attention. A spokesperson for the force updated the public on the situation, confirming that while the road had been shut, safety was their top priority. The statement assured that the road had since reopened, and drivers were free to continue their journeys.

The incident occurred during peak evening hours, leading to substantial delays for commuters. The traffic monitoring system showed long tailbacks stretching as far as Rivington Services, making the journey for many motorists even more time-consuming. Authorities worked quickly to manage the situation, and police thanked the public for their patience.

While the road is now open, it’s important to understand the implications of such closures on local traffic and business travel.

Impact of the M61 Closure on Travelers

For those traveling through the M61, including commuters and tourists heading to popular destinations in Lancashire and beyond, the closure caused significant disruption. The M61 is one of the main routes connecting Greater Manchester and Preston, with travelers often using it to head north towards the Lake District or other scenic tourist destinations.

Business travelers, particularly those traveling from nearby areas like Bolton or Wigan, may have faced delays during this closure. In such cases, it’s crucial to plan ahead and check traffic updates to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

For tourists, the M61 provides essential access to some of the UK’s most popular tourist spots, including Blackpool and the nearby Lancashire Coast. Delays on this key route could have impacted their travel plans, especially those hoping to visit the Lancashire countryside or catch evening events in nearby cities.

Key Points of the M61 Incident

• Closure Reason: The M61 was shut down in both directions at Junction 8 due to a safety concern. Details of the specific concern were not immediately released.
• Location of the Incident: The closure occurred northbound on the approach to Junction 8, impacting traffic up to Rivington Services.
• Reopening: Police confirmed the motorway reopened after the safety concern was resolved.
• Impact on Traffic: Significant delays and tailbacks occurred during the closure, with traffic returning to normal once the road reopened.
• Public Reaction: Lancashire Police thanked drivers for their patience and reminded them to drive safely on their onward journeys.

Tips for Travelers During Motorway Disruptions

While the M61 is now open, delays like these can significantly affect both business and leisure travel. For future reference, here are some quick tips for travelers navigating situations like this:

1. Check Real-Time Traffic Updates: Always keep an eye on real-time traffic monitoring services, such as Google Maps or Inrix, to stay updated on road closures and delays.
2. Use Alternative Routes: If you’re aware of a closure on a major motorway, plan alternative routes ahead of time. For instance, try taking A6 or A666 as alternative routes around Bolton and the surrounding areas.
3. Plan Extra Time for Travel: Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a road trip, plan extra travel time to accommodate potential delays.
4. Stay Informed on Local News: For major incidents like this, check local news websites or Lancashire Police social media for updates, especially if you’re planning to travel to or through the affected area.
5. Know Your Transport Options: In case of significant delays, always be aware of alternative transport methods, such as train services or buses, that could help you reach your destination if the roads are impassable.

Impact on Business Travel and Local Economy

The closure of the M61 highlights the ongoing importance of efficient road infrastructure for both business travel and the local economy. For local businesses in Bolton and Preston, road disruptions can impact daily operations, especially when shipments, deliveries, or staff rely on the motorway for transport.

In a broader context, motorway closures affect regional tourism as well. The M61 is a vital route for tourists heading to nearby attractions such as Blackpool, Lake District, and Lancashire’s countryside. For these tourists, the incident caused unnecessary delays, and potentially missed connections or sightseeing opportunities.

Final Thoughts

With the M61 motorway now fully open, the situation seems to be returning to normal. However, the incident serves as a reminder of how quickly traffic can be disrupted by unforeseen events. Travelers, whether on business or leisure trips, should always stay informed about potential disruptions and adjust their plans accordingly.

In the future, local authorities and traffic monitoring systems will likely continue to improve their response times to ensure that any similar incidents are resolved quickly, minimizing delays for all travelers. For those heading into or through Lancashire, it’s vital to stay vigilant and plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary stress or frustration while traveling.

Key Points in Bullet Form:

• M61 closure at Junction 8 due to a safety concern, with the road fully reopened after police intervention.
• Significant delays and tailbacks reported, stretching to Rivington Services.
• Business and leisure travelers in the area were advised to avoid the stretch and plan for potential delays.
• Lancashire Police thanked the public for their patience during the disruption and advised safe driving.
• Traffic tips: Stay updated on real-time traffic reports, plan extra travel time, and use alternative routes.

By staying informed and planning accordingly, travelers can avoid delays and navigate future disruptions with minimal stress.