A CARRIAGEWAY is closed on the M56 following an accident this afternoon, Wednesday.

The eastbound side of the motorway at Stretton is currently blocked due to an overturned lorry.

All vehicles travelling eastbound are being brought off the carriageway at junction 10 to re-join via the entry slip road.

Northwich Guardian:

Heavy traffic is being reported as a result, stretching back five miles past junction 14 for Chester Services and Helsby.

One lane on the westbound carriageway is also closed to allow emergency services to work on the scene.

Four fire engines attended, with crews using sawdust the HGV load was carrying and sand to soak up fuel that has leaked onto the road.

The driver was handed into the care of paramedics after suffering only cuts and grazes.

Northwich Guardian:

A spokesman for National Highways said: “The M56 in Cheshire is closed eastbound between junction 11 and junction 10 near Warrington due to an overturned HGV.

“Highways England traffic officers are working at the location alongside emergency services.

“There are delays of up to 60 minutes on the approach to the closure, with additional journey times also expected on diversion routes.

Northwich Guardian:

“Lane three of three is also closed on the westbound carriageway to assist the emergency services manage the scene.

“There are three miles of congestion on the approach back to the link with the M6.

“Please allow extra time for your journey if travelling in the area or consider alternative routes.”