M6 traffic LIVE updates as two lanes closed with severe delays amid 'complex operation'

Drivers are being warned to expect rush hour queues on the M6 this morning after a lorry fire.

Two lanes of traffic have been closed on the M6 northbound at the Thelwall Viaduct, near Warrington, this morning (May 27).

The lane closures are in place between junctions 20 at Lymm and 21 for the Irlam and Warrington turn-off.

National Highways says the earlier lorry fire has led to a 'complex recovery operation'.

Motorists are warned to expect long delays throughout the morning.

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A National Highways spokesperson wrote on X: "2 lanes (of 4) are closed on the #M6 northbound #ThelwallViaduct between J20 (#Lymm)and J21 (#Warrington) due to an earlier lorry fire.

"A complex recovery operation will be ongoing throughout the morning. Long delays are expected."

An update from the Inrix traffic monitoring system added: "Queueing traffic and two lanes closed due to recovery work and earlier lorry fire on M6 Thelwall Viaduct Northbound from J20 M56 J9 (Lymm Interchange) to J21 A57 Manchester Road (Woolston).

"Lanes one and two (of four) are closed. Traffic is slow on the opposite side due to onlookers."

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service says it was called out to the incident at 5.09am this morning.

Three fire engines attended, including one from Greater Manchester.

A spokesperson said: "Drivers are advised to find alternative routes while the incident is dealt with."

The lorry involved in the fire had been carrying grain, which now needs to be removed from the road.

2 lanes (of 4) remain closed on the #M6 northbound #ThelwallViaduct between J20 (#Lymm)and J21 (#Warrington) due to an earlier lorry fire.

Recovery is now on scene,