North Wales commuters face M56 shutdown this weekend as bridge demolition work begins

The M56 motorway will experience two full weekend closures this month due to bridge demolition work, affecting drivers travelling to and from North Wales.‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

The motorway which links the A494 and North Wales with North West England will be closed in both directions between junctions 11 and 12 at Preston Brook.

National Highways said the closures will result in long delays in both directions as traffic diverts.

New Bridge

Work has been completed on Cheshire’s new £27 million A533 Expressway bridge over the M56 motorway near Runcorn.‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

The 67-metre, two-span concrete bridge, which includes a single two-lane carriageway and a combined footpath and cycleway, will provide a vital connection for residents, commuters, and businesses in the area.

The old bridge is situated between the new one and the prominent arched railway bridge that carries the London to Liverpool West Coast mainline.‌​‌‌‌​‌‌‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​‍‌​‌‌‌​‌​

Demolition work on the old bridge is set to begin this weekend, resulting in the first of two full weekend M56 closures.

National Highways said, “The M56 will be closed in both directions between junctions 11 and 12.”

Simultaneously, the A533 Expressway bridge will be closed between Preston Brook and Murdishaw roundabout. The A56 will also be closed between the rail bridge and the A533.”

“Access via the bridge will be maintained for walkers and cyclists, who will be assisted through the closure. It will not be possible to view the bridge demolition from this location.”

“We’re advising road users to avoid the area if possible and use alternative routes. Long delays are expected.”

National Highways added, “Please be aware that the Eurovision Song Contest is taking place in Liverpool until Saturday 13 May.”

“A range of activities are planned. If you’re travelling over the course of the event, plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys.”

Closure dates, times and locations

Friday 12 to Monday 15 May

• M56 – closed in both directions between junction 11 and 12. Closed from 9pm Friday to 6am Monday
• A533 Expressway – closed in both directions between Preston Brook and Murdishaw roundabout. Closed from 7pm Friday to 6am Monday
• A56 – closed in both directions from the A533 to the rail bridge. Closed from 7pm Friday to 6am Monday

Friday 19 May to Monday 22 May

• M56 – closed in both directions between junction 11 and 12. Closed from 9pm Friday to 6am Monday
• A533 Expressway – closed in both directions between Preston Brook and Murdishaw roundabout. Closed from 7pm Friday to 6am Monday
• A56 – closed in both directions from the A533 to the rail bridge. Closed from 7pm Friday to 6am Monday

Diversion route: