Traffic was stopped this evening on the M66 southbound between the A56 and Junction 1.
Traffic camera images showed significant congestion building behind the closure, with vehicles brought to a halt for several miles. The nature of the incident has not yet been disclosed, and Greater Manchester Police has been contacted for further information.
The closure caused delays through the evening peak, with drivers being advised to avoid the area and follow diversion routes where possible.
No timeline has been given for when the motorway will fully reopen, and updates are expected as the police operation progresses.
| 19:10 | David Murphy |
INRIX is reporting that all traffic has now cleared and returned to normal.
| 18:13 | David Murphy |
Traffic has now been released on the #M66 southbound between #A56/#A680 and J1 (#Edenfield) following a police-led incident.
— National Highways: North-West (@HighwaysNWEST) January 3, 2026
Thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/5MjtKIUVzU
| 18:00 | David Murphy |
Traffic is now showing as built up on Whalley Rd, adjacent to the M66, as motorists find alternative routes around this section of the motorway.
| 17:55 | David Murphy |
M66 Southbound closed, queueing traffic due to police incident from A56 (Ramsbottom Junction) to J1 A56 Walmersley Road (Ramsbottom). Congestion to A56/A680.
Source: INRIX
| 17:30 | David Murphy |
Traffic has been stopped on the M66 southbound around Ramsbottom due to a 'police-led incident' as publicised by the National Highways.
Greater Manchester Police are currently at the scene.
Traffic has temporarily stopped on the #M66 southbound between #A56/#A680 and J1 (#Edenfield) due to a police-led incident. @gmpolice are on scene. pic.twitter.com/jQ6o0rsBTo
— National Highways: North-West (@HighwaysNWEST) January 3, 2026
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