The M67 motorway near Manchester is shut in both directions for the entire day following a major police incident, with drivers warned to expect significant disruption. The closure, which began this morning, affects the stretch between junction three at Hyde and junction four at Hattersley in Tameside, according to National Highways. The authority has stated that the motorway is likely to remain closed throughout the day due to the nature of the incident, with officers remaining at the scene.
Police confirm extended closure
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed that the motorway will be closed for the majority of the day as investigations continue. A spokesperson for GMP Tameside said: 'Please be aware that officers are dealing with an ongoing incident on the M67. While investigations continue, the M67 will be closed in both directions for the majority of the day.'
The police have urged motorists to seek alternative routes and have apologised for any inconvenience caused. The exact details of the police incident have not yet been released, leaving commuters and local residents in the dark about the cause of the prolonged closure.
Second major closure nearby
Adding to the travel chaos, drivers are facing a second major road closure in the area this morning. The A628 Woodhead Pass is also closed in both directions between Hollingworth and the A616 Flouch roundabout in South Yorkshire. This closure is attributed to a 'serious road traffic collision', according to National Highways, with police also in attendance at that scene.
The dual closures are expected to cause significant congestion on diversion routes, including local roads through Tameside and the Peak District. National Highways has advised drivers to allow extra travel time and to follow signed diversion routes where possible.
Impact on commuters and local traffic
The M67 is a key route connecting Manchester to the Tameside area and beyond, and its closure throughout the day will have a major impact on commuters, freight traffic, and local businesses. With the A628 also shut, the disruption is likely to be felt across a wide area, affecting routes towards Sheffield and the north-east.
Local authorities are advising drivers to consider working from home if possible or to use public transport alternatives. The prolonged nature of the closure suggests that the police incident is serious, and updates are expected as the situation develops.
For the latest updates, drivers are encouraged to check National Highways traffic alerts and local radio broadcasts. The police have not provided a timeline for when the M67 might reopen, but they have indicated that the closure will last for the majority of the day.
