M60 Accident Today: Police Incident Closes Motorway Between Junctions 17 and 18 Near Prestwich

A police-led incident caused major disruption on the M60 motorway near Prestwich, Greater Manchester, on Monday, November 9, 2026, forcing authorities to temporarily hold traffic in both directions.

The incident affected the section between Junction 17, serving Prestwich and Whitefield, and Junction 18 near Simister Island. Motorists travelling clockwise and anticlockwise experienced significant delays as emergency services attended the scene.

According to National Highways, Greater Manchester Police was leading the response, with emergency services present. Traffic was temporarily stopped between the affected junctions while the incident was dealt with.

Delays and motorway disruption

The incident caused substantial queues on both carriageways. Reports indicated that clockwise traffic was backing up towards Junction 12 at Eccles, while anticlockwise congestion extended towards Junction 20 near Higher Blackley.

National Highways warned drivers of delays of up to approximately 50 minutes and confirmed that diversion arrangements were in place.

Motorway reopened after police response

The closure was subsequently lifted, and all lanes were reopened to traffic. Motorists were nevertheless advised to remain alert and check traffic updates before travelling through the area.

The precise nature of the police incident had not been publicly established in the reports reviewed. No confirmed information about injuries or the involvement of specific vehicles was available.

Further details may emerge if Greater Manchester Police releases additional information.

Information notice: This report is intended for general informational purposes. Details are based on published traffic updates and local reporting and may be revised as further verified information becomes available.