M61 traffic LIVE: Motorway closure after 'police-led' incident Newspoint  |  2026-03-30 17:40:47


A major stretch of the M61 has been shut this morning following what officials have described as a "police-led incident".


The motorway is closed southbound between Junction 5 for Westhoughton and Junction 4, while traffic has also been brought to a halt on the northbound carriageway between Junctions 4 and 5.


Emergency services are at the scene and the A579 St Helens Road is also reportedly shut. Long queues are already building in both directions as drivers face major disruption.


In a post on X, National Highways said: "The #M61 in #GreaterManchester is closed southbound between J5 (#Westhoughton/ #Bolton) & J4 (#A6) due to a Police led incident.


"Traffic is stopped northbound between J4 & J5. Emergency services are in attendance. More information to follow. Thank you for your patience."


Visit express.co.uk for live updates.

Read more
20-year-old dies after eating packed Manchurian and Kadhai Paneer: Food safety rules to follow in summer
Newspoint
Former India Spinner's Blunt Remark Ahead of KKR vs LSG Clash in IPL 2026
Newspoint
"Taking single was the right call": Anjum Chopra on David Miller's final-over decision against GT
Newspoint
IPL 2026: Unselfish approach and off-field bond are key to partnership with Priyansh, says Prabhsimran
Newspoint
Gianpiero Lambiase's Red Bull exit gives Max Verstappen one less reason to stay in F1
Newspoint
Rory McIlroy Masters concern raised as 'passion and drive' questioned
Newspoint
Asian Boxing Championships 2026: Indian Women Top medal charts, win 4 golds
Newspoint
Darts referee for Luke Littler and Gian van Veen spat breaks silence over incident
Newspoint
"Indecision towards end...": Bangar on DC's one-run loss to GT
Newspoint
World no. 1 Sheetal Devi prioritises Para Asian Games in Japan, defers LA28 Paralympics focus
Newspoint