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M6 lorry fire LIVE: Latest updates, diversions in place, expected reopening times and the current scene

All traffic has been stopped on the M6 southbound and M55 eastbound after a lorry fire this morning (Friday, July 29).
Fire crews working at the scene on the M6 in Preston this morning (Friday, July 29)Fire crews working at the scene on the M6 in Preston this morning (Friday, July 29)
Fire crews working at the scene on the M6 in Preston this morning (Friday, July 29)

Fire crews are working at the scene where a lorry caught fire at around 6.15am between junctions 32 and 31a in Preston.

A full closure of the southbound carriageway was put in place between the two junctions at 6.50am.

The incident has also led to the M55 being shut eastbound between junction 1 (A6 Garstang Road, Fulwood) to M6 junction 32.

Follow our live blog below for the latest updates...

Live: M6 and M55 shut in Preston due to lorry fire

Key Events

  • M6 southbound closed between J32 (Preston) to J31A (Ribbleton)
  • M55 eastbound also closed in Preston between J1 and M6
  • Traffic is being diverted via local roads

Due to the southbound M6 closure today this convoy might have been forced to divert through Preston.

Mystery as police and military deny all knowledge of huge convoy through Preston

A long convoy of police and military trucks rolled through Preston with sirens wailing today (Friday, July 29) – but the movement appears to be shrouded in secrecy.

The blue-light convoy – made up of nine police vehicles, four Army trucks, three coaches and a fire engine – was seen making its way through Kirkham, Preston and Penwortham at around 10am.

M6 closed for 8 hours and counting

The M6 has now been closed for more than 8 hours after a lorry caught fire at around 6.15am near junction 3 in Preston.

There are now concerns the motorway might not reopen in time for Friday evening rush hour.

National Highways say it could remain closed until later this evening.

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