Drivers will face major changes to their journeys after the M62 closure tonight – the first of two weekend closures coming up.
Motorists in Greater Manchester face disruption this weekend as the M62 closes in Rochdale today.
The M62 sees around 120,000 vehicles a day and it connects Liverpool and Hull via Manchester and Leeds.
The closure is needed so that Network Rail can demolish and replace the Castleton rail bridge over the motorway.
Here is what to expect during the weekend closures and how to avoid it.
The first weekend closure will start today at 9pm and continue through the weekend until Monday, September 9 at 6am, National Highways said.
The eastbound carriageway will be closed from Junction 18 to Junction 20 at Simister Island interchange, while the westbound carriageway will be shut from Junction 20 to Junction 19 at Heywood.
The alternative trans-Pennine routes include the A69 between Carlisle and Newcastle, the A66 between Penrith and Scotch Corner, and between Manchester and Sheffield via roads such as the M67, A57, A628 and A616.
Gary Farrell, National Highways’ senior network planner, said: ‘Network Rail clearly needs to replace what is an ageing bridge and a critical piece of the railways infrastructure supporting the important Manchester Victoria to Leeds service and other routes.
‘We’ve been working with staff from Network Rail for many months to plan and publicise this work including the two full weekend closures.
Motorists have been strongly advised to plan ahead and learn the diversion routes before travelling.
Here are the diversion routes in place this weekend.
Eastbound diversion
Westbound diversion
Westbound drivers at the M62 should take the A627(M) Southbound.
‘We are urging drivers to avoid this section of the M62 during the two weekends by delaying journeys or planning alternative routes – but anyone who does need to use the M62 over the two weekends should follow the official diversions and not rely on sat nav advice.’
Motorists and runners attending the Great North Run on Sunday were advised to plan ahead to avoid getting caught out which normally attracts around 60,000 participants and spectators.
The AA’s spokesperson Tony Rich said: ‘Be sure to have plenty of fuel or EV charge on board to account for the diversions.’
Another weekend closure will take place from Friday, September 20, at 9pm until the following Monday at 6am.
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