LIVE: M56 fully closed both ways with major traffic delays due to 'police incident' - updates
The M56 is fully shut both ways this morning due to a 'police incident'.
The motorway is currently shut between junction 12 for Runcorn and junction 14 for Chester Services and Helsby. The road has been shut since around 3am this morning, according to the North West Motorway Police.
Diversion routes are in place for both eastbound and westbound. Traffic is building up to the incident and 'heavy congestion' has been reported on the diversion routes through Frodsham and Helsby.
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Drivers are being urged to avoid the area and find a different route. In a tweet posted this morning, Cheshire Police said: "M56 is currently closed in both directions between junctions 12 and 14 due to an ongoing incident.
"Traffic is currently gridlocked in Helsby and Frodsham due to diverted traffic. Please avoid the area where possible and plan an alternative route."
Follow the latest updates on this incident in our live blog below.
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If travelling eastbound road users are advised to follow the Solid Diamond diversion symbol on road signs
Please be aware that there is a Low Bridge of 14'6'' (4.4m) on the A56 between Dig Lane and Marsh Lane, Frodsham. Drivers of vehicles over this height should plan an alternative route accordingly.
If travelling westbound road users are advised to follow the Hollow Circle diversion symbol on road signs
Please be aware that there is a Low Bridge of 14'6'' (4.4m) on the A56 between Dig Lane and Marsh Lane, Frodsham. Drivers of vehicles over this height should plan an alternative route accordingly.
