A lorry has fallen off a motorway bridge, triggering a significant rescue operation near Warrington. The HGV crashed through the barrier and landed on the ground below. Emergency services, including police and fire crews, are currently at the scene with a full closure in effect. The incident occurred at the Thelwall Viaduct on the M6 this evening, leading to the closure of the northbound carriageway between junction 20 of Lymm Interchange and junction 21 for the A57.
Cheshire Police have urged drivers to avoid the area due to the “significant damage” caused to the barriers. Fortunately, the driver of the lorry has been rescued and taken to the hospital, according to reports from the Manchester Evening News. A Cheshire Police spokesperson stated that the driver did not sustain life-threatening injuries. As a result of the incident, three lanes on the northbound carriageway remain closed, with only one lane open at a reduced speed limit. These lane closures are expected to persist into the morning, and motorists are advised to seek alternative routes.
The Cheshire Fire & Rescue team shared details of their response to the incident, noting that the HGV had overturned on an embankment, falling approximately 60 metres. Firefighters deployed technical rescue equipment to reach the casualty and safely transfer them to paramedics. Additionally, efforts were made to contain a leak of around 1000 litres of bio-diesel from the vehicle’s fuel tanks.
Following the initial response, lanes one and two have been reopened by Cheshire Police and the Highways Agency. Operations are being wrapped up, and the incident is being handed over to partner agencies. The developments will be monitored closely, and updates will be provided as they become available.