Delays of around 1.5 hours on M56 in Cheshire as thousands make way to Creamfields

[Thursday] Those heading to Creamfields 2023 in Daresbury are advised by National Highways to allow extra time for their journey.

There’s a reported delay of an hour and a half on the M56 westbound, with traffic backed up to the M6 junction.

Disruptions are expected to continue throughout the day.

A reminder to allow extra time for your journey if you’re heading to @Creamfields today.

There’s now an hour and a half delay on the #M56 westbound approaching J11, with queueing traffic back to the #M6 junction.

Delays are likely to remain in the area throughout the day. pic.twitter.com/AQFUf8zgRa

— National Highways: North-West (@HighwaysNWEST) August 24, 2023

Creamfields, the UK’s biggest dance music festival, is set to see around 70,000 attend from Thursday 24 to Monday 28 August.

With such large numbers descending upon Daresbury, it’s no surprise that the roads are feeling the pressure.

Cheshire Constabulary, in its yearly collaboration with festival organisers, has pulled out all the stops to ensure everyone attending the event remains safe.

The challenge of policing such a massive gathering isn’t limited to the festival grounds.

Efforts are also being made to support local communities, attempting to reduce the impact of the festival on residents.

At the helm of this year’s policing operation is Superintendent Sarah Heath.

She shared insights into the meticulous planning that precedes the festival each year, asserting, “Our main aim is to ensure the safety of festival goers and support the local community.” Acknowledging the majority who come to enjoy the event responsibly, she also stressed on the rigorous security measures in place.

Safety measures include searches at entry points, drug-sniffing dogs, and amnesty bins for prohibited items.

Those attempting to smuggle in illicit items face stern consequences. Superintendent Heath warned, “Be under no illusion – if you are caught trying to smuggle anything like this into the festival, you will be prosecuted.”

Creamfields 2023, festival-goers and local residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any non-emergency incidents to Cheshire Police or dial 999 in emergencies.