Is the M6 near Preston closed today, or are delays affecting your journey? With recent crashes, police incidents, and lane closures, many motorists travelling through Preston are checking the motorway status before setting off. Whether commuting locally or heading southbound, staying informed about the M6 can help avoid unexpected disruption.
This article explains what has happened recently on the M6 around Preston, what delays were reported, and how drivers can keep up to date with live traffic conditions.
What Caused Severe Delays on the M6 Southbound Near Leyland?
Motorists travelling southbound on the M6 from Preston experienced significant delays after a collision between Junction 28 for Leyland and Junction 27 for Standish. The crash occurred shortly after 5pm on Thursday, 11 December, prompting National Highways to close one lane of the motorway.
The incident led to five miles of congestion, with delays reaching up to 90 minutes compared to normal journey times. Traffic England data showed queues extending back to Junction 32, where the M6 meets the M61, causing disruption well beyond the immediate crash location.
Although the lane closure was temporary, the volume of traffic during the evening peak meant congestion continued for several hours.
How Long Did the M6 Congestion Last After the Crash?
Following the collision, delays continued throughout the early evening as recovery teams worked to clear the scene. The lane closure caused traffic to build up rapidly, particularly for drivers heading south toward Greater Manchester.
National Highways confirmed that all vehicles involved in the crash were removed and that traffic conditions improved steadily. By around 7pm on Thursday evening, congestion had fully cleared and all lanes were reopened.
Why Did Traffic Build Up as Far Back as Junction 32?
The congestion extended back to Junction 32 because this point connects the M6 with the M61, making it one of the busiest sections of motorway in the region. When one lane was closed further south, traffic volumes exceeded the reduced capacity, leading to long queues.
Drivers joining the motorway from Preston and surrounding areas were affected, even if they were not travelling through the crash location itself. This type of knock-on effect is common during peak hours when traffic levels are already high.
What Happened During the Police Chase Near Preston on the M55?
Earlier on the same day, a separate police incident added to motorway disruption around Preston. Lancashire Police were involved in a high-speed pursuit after a Ford Focus estate was seen travelling at speeds of up to 120mph.
The chase began in Wigan and continued toward Preston, ending on the M55 between Preston and Blackpool. Officers used a stinger device to puncture the vehicle’s front tyre, bringing it to a controlled stop.
Why Was a Stolen Dog Found in the Vehicle?
After stopping the vehicle, police discovered that a stolen dog was inside the car. A dog unit was deployed to assist officers, and the driver was arrested shortly after attempting to flee.
Police later confirmed that the dog was unharmed and was safely returned to its owner. While the incident caused only brief traffic disruption, it highlighted the risks posed by dangerous driving on high-speed routes such as the M6 and M55.
What Were the Main M6 and M55 Disruptions on Thursday?
The table below summarises the key incidents that affected traffic near Preston on Thursday, 11 December:
| Date | Time | Incident | Location | Impact |
| 11 December | After 5pm | Road traffic collision | M6 southbound, J28–J27 | 5-mile congestion, delays up to 90 minutes |
| 11 December | Morning | Police chase | M55 near Preston | Short delays, driver arrested |
| 11 December | Evening | Lane closure | M6 southbound | Traffic returned to normal by 7pm |
Is the M6 Near Preston Fully Open Now?
Yes, the M6 near Preston is currently fully open. National Highways confirmed that all delays from Thursday’s incidents had cleared by early evening, and no ongoing lane closures remain in place.
However, drivers are advised to remain cautious, as accidents, breakdowns, or emergency incidents can occur with little warning, particularly during peak travel periods.
How Can Drivers Check Live M6 Preston Traffic Updates?
Drivers can monitor the status of the M6 near Preston using several reliable live traffic services. These platforms provide real-time information about collisions, congestion, and road closures and are particularly useful before setting off or during longer journeys.
National Highways, AA Roadwatch, RAC Traffic News, Google Maps, Waze, and BBC Lancashire Travel all offer up-to-date traffic reports for the Preston area and surrounding motorway network.
Why Is the M6 Around Preston Prone to Sudden Disruption?
The M6 near Preston is a major junction point connecting the M55, M61, and key routes across Lancashire. High traffic volumes, combined with frequent merging points, mean that even minor incidents can lead to widespread delays.
When incidents occur during rush hour, congestion can spread quickly across nearby junctions and local roads, affecting commuters, businesses, and public transport services.
FAQs About M6 Preston Traffic and Closures
What caused the recent delays on the M6 near Preston?
A collision between Junctions 28 and 27 on the southbound carriageway caused lane closures and heavy congestion on 11 December.
How long were drivers delayed on the M6?
Some motorists experienced delays of up to 90 minutes during the height of the congestion.
Was the M6 completely closed during the incident?
No, one lane was closed, but traffic volumes caused significant delays.
What happened during the police chase on the M55?
Police stopped a vehicle travelling at very high speeds using a stinger, arrested the driver, and recovered a stolen dog.
Is traffic flowing normally on the M6 now?
Yes, traffic returned to normal conditions by around 7pm on Thursday.
Are there frequent incidents on the M6 near Preston?
Due to high traffic volumes, incidents do occur periodically, particularly during peak hours.
How can drivers avoid delays on the M6?
Checking live traffic updates before travel and allowing extra time during busy periods can help reduce disruption.
