After Lorry Fire Near Bolton, M61 Has Been Closed

Due to a lorry fire, M61 was closed in some regions. The traffic towards Manchester was affected.

The fire started at around 4.30 am today. (Thursday, January 28). Between junctions 8(Chorley)  and junctions 6 (Horwich) were closed after the fire.

Emergency services, fire crews, and Highways North West officers came to the scene immediately. As a result of the fire, the road was closed in both directions.

A spokesperson for Highways North West said “The M61 southbound J8 (Chorley A674 A6) to J6 ( Bolton North, Horwich A6027) 2 lanes have been closed due to a lorry fire. Traffic Officers & @LancashireFRS @manchesterfire are currently at the scene.”

After a while from that announcement, an update was shared this morning that three lanes were opened and the spokesperson said that “ Congestion to the A674 and the A6 is slow in patches from Chorley to Blackrod as people seek alternative routes. Affecting traffic heading towards Manchester.”