M56 closed in both directions near Manchester Airport after crash

Complex roadworks underway following the collision

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 18th Oct 2026

The M56 motorway in Greater Manchester has been shut down in both directions following a road traffic collision near Manchester Airport.

The closure affects the westbound section between Junction 1 and Junction 5, and the eastbound section from Junction 5 to Junction 2.

Greater Manchester Police have initiated a complex collision investigation, assisted by National Highways Traffic Officers and service providers who are managing traffic.

Diversion routes have been established, guiding motorists through various junctions including the M60, A5103, and A560.

Drivers are advised to allow extra journey time or consider alternative routes, and further updates can be obtained from National Highways' website, travel apps, or regional X feed.

For live assistance, their 24/7 contact centre can be reached at 0300 123 5000.

You can also read the latest on the incident here.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.