Plan ahead warning as M56 near Runcorn set to close for second weekend

Motorists using the M56 through Cheshire have been urged to plan their journeys ahead of the second weekend closure of the motorway near Runcorn.

This closure, which will impact those travelling to and from north Wales, is part of National Highways’ £27 million A533 bridge replacement project, which is nearing completion after 18 months of work.

National Highways has confirmed ‘good progress’ following the first weekend of demolition work, with the motorway reopening on time at 6 am on Monday 15th May.

In a statement, they expressed gratitude to drivers for their patience and support.

National Highways project manager Sam Whitfield said, “Demolishing the old A533 bridge, which is right next to the new one, was always going to be a delicate and complicated operation and the safety of road users is our key concern.”

He added, “With the motorway and new bridge closed again this weekend, we’re urging drivers to plan ahead, check for congestion on the diversion routes before setting off and leave a little bit of extra time for journeys – or avoid this section of the motorway altogether if possible.”

The M56 will be closed in both directions between junction 11 and junction 12 from 9 pm on Friday, 19th May until 6 am on Monday, 22nd May.

This closure will allow the completion of the demolition of the last remaining old bridge structures.

Opened to traffic for the first time on 17th April, the new bridge is said to be future-proofing a vital connection for residents, commuters, and businesses across the motorway.

The bridge will also be temporarily closed again this weekend, from 7 pm on Friday until 6 am on Monday. Access to and from the A56 local road will be closed at its junction with the A533 near the new bridge.

Clearly-signed diversions will be in place during both the bridge and motorway closures. Full information is available on the dedicated project webpage.

National Highways also advises drivers to check traffic conditions before setting out on journeys, with live traffic information available at www.trafficengland.com and through their 24-7 customer contact centre at 0300 123 5000. Updates will also be posted to National Highways’ regional Twitter feed, @HighwaysNWest.