Commissioner Urges Government Action to Tackle M6 Disruptions and Keep Lancashire Moving

In a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP, Commissioner Grunshaw outlined the serious impact of frequent accidents and congestion between junctions 28 and 33. He emphasised the knock-on effects on local roads and the increased demand on police resources to manage diverted traffic and incidents.

“When the M6 is closed or congested, traffic is routinely diverted through Preston and surrounding areas,” said Commissioner Grunshaw. “This places immense pressure on local roads, causing widespread disruption and gridlock.”

While local agencies—including Lancashire Constabulary, highways authorities, and local councils—are working together to manage and prevent incidents, the scale and frequency of disruption continue to strain resources. Since November 2024, Lancashire Constabulary has doubled motorway enforcement activity, and Lancashire County Council is investing in innovative solutions to improve traffic flow and resilience. However, local efforts alone cannot fully mitigate the impact of motorway closures.

Commissioner Grunshaw is urging the Government to consider a range of additional measures, including:

• A review of speed limits and the potential introduction of variable speed limits or average speed cameras during peak times.
• Investment in key infrastructure improvements, such as a new bridge over the River Ribble and a new motorway junction between J32 and J33 near Lancaster—the longest uninterrupted stretch of the M6 without an interchange.
• Greater powers for local authorities through regional devolution deals, enabling them to unlock investment in transport resilience, similar to arrangements in Greater Manchester and Liverpool.

“Lancashire hosts the largest motorway network outside London, serving both local commuters and significant through-traffic,” said Commissioner Grunshaw. “The regular disruption on the M6 has a ripple effect across our communities, often bringing traffic to a standstill.”

“Locally, we’re doing all we can—from increased police enforcement to targeted infrastructure improvements—but we need national support to deliver long-term solutions. By preventing accidents and closures, we can save lives, reduce pressure on our roads policing teams, and ensure that people and goods can move freely across the county.

“To keep Lancashire moving, we need bold action and significant investment. That’s why I’ve written to the Transport Secretary to reaffirm the concerns of Lancashire residents and support calls for infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety, resilience, and economic growth.”