Long delays after jackknifed lorry shuts M6 southbound - latest updates

Police are asking drivers to avoid the motorway until the incident is cleared...

There are long delays on the M6 this afternoon after a lorry jackknifed and spilled fuel on the motorway near Lancaster.

Delays on the M6 near Lancaster due to a lorry crashplaceholder image
Delays on the M6 near Lancaster due to a lorry crash | Chris Barnes

The M6 southbound is currently closed between junctions 36 (Kirkby Lonsdale) and 34 (Bay Gateway, Lancaster), causing severe delays this afternoon.

Southbound traffic is reportedly backed up for 18 miles to Killington Lake Services near junction 37.

Northbound traffic was also held but has since been released, however, some delays remain on the carriageway.

A police spokesperson said: “We are currently dealing with a road traffic collision on the M6.

“As a result we have closed the motorway in both directions between J34 and J35.

“There is currently heavy traffic at Junction 34 and the Bay Gateway and will take some time to clear.

“We are working to reopen the motorway as soon as possible. Please avoid the area if you can.”

Join our new FREE WhatsApp Community today

All the latest news and top stories from across Blackpool and the Fylde coast directly to your phone

Never miss a thing. Click here to join

A6 congested with diverted traffic

Drivers diverting off the motorway onto the A6 through Carnforth are reportedly facing heavy traffic along Lancaster Road and Scotland Road this afternoon.

Diversion route

Road users are advised to follow the solid diamond diversion symbol visible on local road signs.

- Exit the M6 southbound at J36 and join the A65 towards Kirkby Lonsdale.

- Take a right on to the A683 towards Lancaster.

- Continue on the A683 through Nether, Burrow, Tunstall, Melling, Hornby, Claughton and Caton and re-join M6 at J34.

Drivers taking this route are advised there is a bridge with a 4.7m / 15'6" height restriction at Caton.

More to follow...

News you can trust since 1873
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice