M61 chaos: Motorists face heavy delays on major motorway after road tragedy causes congestion

Drivers have been warned to expect long delays after a major motorway has shut in both directions in Greater Manchester following a police-led incident.

The M61 is currently closed between Junction 2 at Linnyshaw and Junction 4 at Over Hulton near Bolton, with congestion stretching for around three miles on both sides.

National Highways warned drivers are currently facing delays of up to 30 minutes, with queues also building on nearby routes, including the M60.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed officers were called to the motorway earlier today following reports of a man on the road.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

A GMP spokesperson said: "We were called to reports of a concern for welfare on the M61 today (Friday 8 May 2026). Sadly, a man died at the scene. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

"The motorway will be closed in both directions between junction 2 at Linnyshaw and junction 4 at Over Hulton while officers conduct their enquiries."

National Highways traffic officers are at the scene helping manage traffic while diversions remain in place.

Drivers travelling northbound have been diverted via the A666 Kearsley Spur, A6053, A5082 and A6 before rejoining the motorway at Junction 4.

Meanwhile, southbound traffic is being redirected along the same roads, but in reverse.

Motorists have been urged to allow extra time for journeys and consider alternative routes while the closure remains in place.

Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported severe delays throughout the afternoon, with queues backing onto the M60 near the Trafford Centre.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• New overnight parking ban unveiled at popular coastal site as motorists get blocked for six months
• New driving rules could see new cameras installed in every car from July targeting key safety concerns
• Rachel Reeves slammed as EV drivers threaten to return to petrol and diesel cars amid new pay-per-mile taxes

National Highways also posted updates on social media, warning drivers to expect disruption across the area.

The agency shared: "The M61 in Greater Manchester remains closed in both directions between J2 Linnyshaw & J4 OverHulton following a police-led incident.

"Delays of 30 minutes and three miles of congestion in both directions."

Images from traffic cameras showed the motorway almost completely empty as emergency services carried out investigations.

The closure caused heavy traffic on local diversion routes through Bolton and Farnworth, with drivers reporting slow-moving conditions on surrounding roads.

Police have not released further details about the man who died. National Highways said the motorway will remain shut while officers continue their enquiries.

Drivers heading through Greater Manchester on Friday afternoon are being advised to check traffic updates before travelling.

Normal traffic conditions are expected to return between 4:45pm and 5pm later today.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter