A serious traffic accident involving multiple vehicles has led to significant disruptions on the M60 motorway, resulting in injuries and a complete closure of the roadway in both directions. The incident occurred on March 20, 2025, and involved a total of six vehicles including a heavy goods vehicle (HGV). Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, and the situation remains under active management as authorities work to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to investigate the cause of the collision.
The crash took place between junctions 15 and 16 of the M60, a critical route that facilitates heavy traffic in and around Greater Manchester. As emergency services arrived at the scene, they found several individuals injured as a result of the crash, prompting immediate medical attention. The extensive response included units from Greater Manchester Police (GMP), North West Ambulance Service, and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).
According to a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police, the incident unfolded when the HGV crossed the central reservation and veered into the opposite lane, ultimately colliding with multiple vehicles before crashing into the embankment. The police reported that the incident occurred around 7 PM, highlighting the immediate challenges faced by emergency responders in dealing with the aftermath of such a significant road mishap. “We are responding to a collision on the M60 motorway at junction 15 in Swinton involving an HGV crossing the central reservation into the opposite lane before going into the embankment,” the police spokesperson stated.
As a result of the crash, both sides of the motorway were closed, causing traffic to back up significantly, extending as far as Prestwich. Motorists were left stranded in traffic, creating a growing concern regarding the delays. With emergency services working tirelessly on-site to assist the injured and clear the scene, motorists in the area were urged to avoid this section of the M60 as the situation continued to unfold. Authorities communicated their appreciation for the patience exhibited by drivers, recognizing the inconvenience caused by the closure as first responders tended to those in need of medical assistance and carried out crucial investigations into the accident.
The extent of the emergency response was considerable, with four fire engines dispatched from Heywood, Farnworth, and Agecroft fire stations. The GMFRS spokesperson confirmed the dispatch, indicating that the crews arrived quickly to collaborate with police and make the area safe. Their immediate focus was on securing the scene and executing protocols to protect other road users while also providing aid to the individuals who had sustained injuries in the crash. In total, four people were assessed by paramedics on-site, and one individual was transported to Salford Royal Hospital for further treatment.
As the situation developed, National Highways issued a statement suggesting that the motorway is likely to remain closed for an extended period, urging drivers to stay informed about the ongoing situation and plan alternative routes if necessary. Given the complexities of the incident, officials recognized that the closure could significantly impact traffic patterns and commuter schedules in the surrounding area for the duration of the investigation and cleanup process.
For motorists caught in the unexpected traffic due to the closure of the M60, it is essential to follow the newly implemented diversion routes. These diversions are constructed to help alleviate congestion and provide a safe pathway for travelers who are unable to proceed on the main motorway. The specific arrangements vary depending on the direction of travel. Clockwise traffic is directed via the solid diamond diversion symbol featured on road signs. Motorists are instructed to exit the M60 clockwise at junction 15 and join the M61 heading north. After exiting the M61 at the A666 junction, drivers should proceed on the A666 northbound until they reach the Kearsley Interchange roundabout, where they will take the third exit to transition onto the A666 southbound (Bolton Road) to then rejoin the M60 clockwise at junction 16.
For those traveling anti-clockwise, the diversion is indicated by a hollow square symbol on road signs. Motorists should exit the M60 at junction 16 and turn right at the junction to merge onto the A666 northbound, continuing until they arrive at the Kearsley Interchange roundabout. At the roundabout, they will turn left to maintain their route on the A666(M) and join the M61 southbound. After continuing south on the M61, motorists can then merge back onto the M60 anti-clockwise to continue their journey.
Authorities are urging all drivers impacted by this unfortunate incident to allow extra time for travel and remain vigilant about potential delays. Given the gravity of the situation, it is advisable for commuters to consider re-routing their journeys or delaying travel plans altogether until the situation is resolved and normal traffic patterns can be restored. The safety of passengers and drivers remains paramount, and the focus of emergency services is on clearing the scene while ensuring those injured receive the necessary medical care.
As the hours pass, the investigation into the cause of the collision is expected to be thorough. This examination will likely examine factors such as road conditions, the state of the vehicles involved, and the actions of the driver of the HGV prior to the accident. Understanding the details surrounding how the crash occurred is crucial to preventing similar incidents from happening in the future, and authorities will be working diligently to piece together information that can inform road safety regulations and driver awareness initiatives.
The M60 is an essential infrastructure artery for Greater Manchester, supporting both local commuters and through traffic. While the closure has caused significant interruptions, the concerted effort of emergency services and road authorities aims to restore normalcy as quickly and safely as possible. In the meantime, communication channels remain open to provide live updates and ongoing information regarding road conditions and the status of the investigation.
As the first responders deal with the aftermath of the crash, and recovery efforts continue, the community is left reflecting on the incident’s broader implications. The potential for road incidents serves as a solemn reminder of the inherent risks associated with vehicular travel, underscoring the importance of safe driving practices and adherence to traffic regulations. Safety campaigns that educate drivers about the dangers of reckless driving, the importance of maintaining a safe distance from larger vehicles, and the need for attentiveness on the road can only enhance the culture of safety that should prevail on all roadways.
In conclusion, the multi-car crash involving an HGV on the M60 has caused extensive disruption and injuries, demanding an immediate and robust response from emergency services. The ongoing collaboration among police, fire crews, and medical personnel underscores the critical nature of their work and the commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals on the road. For drivers traversing this region, following the established diversion routes and staying informed about the latest updates remains essential as the situation develops. Moving forward, the incident will likely serve as a pivotal case study for traffic safety discussions and a call to action for every driver to remain vigilant and responsible behind the wheel.