M60 closed after serious crash involving motorbike near Simister Island

Friday, 1 August 2025 21:45

By David Murphy

The carriageway closest to the camera is Anticlockwise, J19. Credit: National Highways

The M60 has been shut in both directions tonight, Friday, 1 August, following a serious crash involving a motorcyclist.

The collision happened between Junctions 18, Simister Island, and 19, near Middleton, just after 9pm. Both Greater Manchester Police and National Highways have confirmed that the road will remain closed for a “prolonged period” while emergency teams attend the scene.

Paramedics from the North West Ambulance Service are also involved in the response, though no official update has yet been issued on the condition of those involved.

National Highways has advised motorists to avoid the area and to follow signed diversion routes. A pre-planned closure for roadworks between Junctions 21 and 19 on the anti-clockwise carriageway is also in place tonight, meaning the full anti-clockwise route is closed between Junctions 21 and 18.

Traffic officers and contractors are currently managing the scene and helping to redirect vehicles.

Drivers heading clockwise are being advised to:

Exit at Junction 18 and travel anti-clockwise to Junction 17
Take the A56, then the A6044 and A576
Rejoin the M60 clockwise at Junction 19

For those heading anti-clockwise, the recommended route is:

Leave at Junction 21 via Semple Way
Use the A663 and A6104, then follow the A576
Continue towards the A6044 and A56 to rejoin at Junction 17

A spokesperson for National Highways said: “The M60 in Greater Manchester is currently closed in both directions due to a serious collision involving a motorcyclist. The closure is likely to remain in place overnight while police carry out investigation work.”

Drivers are urged to check live travel updates and allow extra time for journeys.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Sunshine, live music and community spirit as Rotary Middleton’s Proms in the Park delights crowds

Jubilee Park was the place to be today, Sunday, 10 August, as Rotary Middleton brought back its much-loved Proms in the Park in glorious sunshine.
IN PHOTOS: 'Stop the boats' as Hundreds join Heywood protest against illegal immigration

A protest march through Heywood on Saturday 9 August 2025 drew hundreds of participants calling for tougher action on illegal immigration and the regulation of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) in the borough.
Council urged to ‘keep the magic’ as Bury market modernised

As the shopping area with the third highest footfall in Greater Manchester many people would say Bury market doesn’t need a lot of changes.
Serial predator posed as trusted tutor to sexually abuse girls as young as eight

A private tutor who abused five girls over a decade while giving maths and Quran lessons has been jailed for 14 years following a Manchester Crown Court trial
Man admits bringing knives and weapons onto school grounds in Middleton arrest

A man arrested outside a school in Middleton last week has now pleaded guilty to a string of offences, including possessing offensive weapons and criminal damage.
What's really happening at Rochdale's asbestos-riddled 'Chernobyl' site?

Locals fond of taking the scenic route along Rochdale’s River Spodden are used to having their picturesque view being temporarily spoiled.
Scout Moor II, the story so far

Towards the horizon north of Manchester sits a picturesque view of wind turbines rotating slowly above the crest of the hills.
‘Fishy empire’ spoof sparks laughs but real Middleton chippy says the threat is no joke

Middleton Fish Bar urges community support as national chain plans rival shop metres away, sparking both satire and serious concerns.
Huge fire erupts at Rochdale garage as black smoke seen for miles

Fire crews tackle dramatic blaze on Jermyn Street with residents urged to stay indoors as thick smoke fills sky
Minister joins GMP patrol as summer crime blitz hits Bury town centre

Home Office Minister Dame Angela Eagle MP joined Greater Manchester Police officers in Bury town centre on Wednesday, 6 August, to see first-hand how a government-backed summer crime crackdown is working to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Huge shake up of major roads in Rochdale planned

A new bus lane, upgraded bus stops and safer roads have all been earmarked for Rochdale town centre.
Club president Colin Robinson honoured for 70 years of dedication to Rochdale Harriers

Rochdale Harriers gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone for one of the town’s most respected sporting figures.