Lorry falls off bridge onto M56 motorway

Police remain at the scene a major road traffic incident reported at 3.24pm today on the M56 at Preston Brook between Warrington and Runcorn.

A HGV left the carriageway whilst travelling on a bridge over the motorway at junction 11.

There is one confirmed casualty involved. The HGV, which was laden with household goods, came to a rest on the westbound carriageway. The M56 is now closed in both directions at the location and traffic is being diverted off the motorway at junction 11. Traffic is currently backed up to Lymm and Chester in either direction and motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area.

The motorway is expected to be closed for several hours whilst scene examination takes place and recovery of the HGV. This will impact heavily upon rush hour traffic in and around Warrington. Motorists are advised not to take journeys that are not absolutely essential and to avoid the roads around Warrington.

The A56 above the motorway leading from Preston Brook to Warrington is also closed to traffic.

Any witnesses to the collision are urged to contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000