Key Points
- M61 Northbound is partially blocked due to an accident between J5 A58 Snydale Way (Westhoughton) and J6 A6027 De Havilland Way (Horwich).
- Slow traffic reported in the affected section.
- Incident described as a "minor RTC (road traffic collision)" by National Highways spokesperson; all vehicles moved to hard shoulder, delays expected to clear quickly.
- Live and breaking incident with updates ongoing.
Westhoughton (Bolton Today) April 22, 2026 - The M61 northbound is partially blocked following a road traffic collision between junctions 5 and 6, causing slow traffic for motorists travelling from Westhoughton towards Horwich. A spokesperson for National Highways confirmed it as a "minor RTC" this morning, stating all vehicles have been moved to the hard shoulder so delays should clear quickly. This incident, reported as live and breaking, is being monitored with further updates promised as they become available.
What Caused the Blockage on the M61?
As reported by staff writers at The Oldham Times, the M61 Northbound partial blockage stems from an accident, leading to slow traffic from J5 A58 Snydale Way (Westhoughton) to J6 A6027 De Havilland Way (Horwich). A spokesperson for National Highways said there was a "minor RTC (road traffic collision)" this morning and all vehicles have been moved to the hard shoulder, so any delays should clear quickly. No further details on the number of vehicles involved or any injuries have been disclosed at this stage.
Similar incidents on the M61 have previously involved more serious collisions. For instance, in a separate event covered by Daily Express reporters, a police-led incident closed southbound lanes between J5 (Westhoughton/Bolton) and J4 (A6), with northbound traffic halted between J4 and J5, and emergency services on site.
Which Sections of the M61 Are Affected?
The primary impact is on the northbound carriageway from J5 near Westhoughton to J6 near Horwich, where slow traffic persists due to the partial blockage. National Highways noted that vehicles have been cleared to the hard shoulder, aiding quicker resolution.
In comparable reports, such as those from The Bolton News on X, closures have extended between Westhoughton and Horwich, with reasons detailed in linked articles. Greater Manchester Police posts on Facebook indicated blocks diverting traffic to the Kearsley Spur (A666) in ongoing incidents.
What Has National Highways Said About the Incident?
A spokesperson for National Highways provided the key update: there was a "minor RTC (road traffic collision)" this morning and all vehicles have been moved to the hard shoulder, so any delays should clear quickly. This statement, as covered by The Oldham Times, underscores the minor nature of the collision.
National Highways has issued similar reassurances in past events. Daily Express quoted a statement on X:
"The M61 #GreaterManchester closed south between J5 (#Westhoughton/Bolton) & J4 (#A6) due to a police-led incident. Traffic is halted northbound between J4 & J5. Emergency services are on-site. Further updates will be provided."
Are There Any Injuries or Further Details on the RTC?
Details on injuries remain unavailable in the initial reports from The Oldham Times, which described the RTC as minor, with vehicles cleared promptly. Updates are promised as a live incident.
Historical parallels show variability; Evrimagaci.org summarised a fatal crash sparking safety outcry, with severe delays from J6 Horwich (33 minutes southbound) and J2 northbound (21 minutes). Greater Manchester Police Facebook posts noted serious police incidents closing stretches from J6 to J8, with long delays.
How Is Traffic Flowing in the Area?
Slow traffic is reported from J5 (Westhoughton) to J6 (Horwich) due to the partial blockage. National Highways anticipates quick clearance following vehicle movement to the hard shoulder.
Broader disruptions have been noted elsewhere. LancsLive, as cited in Evrimagaci, reported standstill traffic and A579 St Helens Road closure in a police-led event. Inrix monitoring, referenced by Express.co.uk, highlighted stationary traffic and significant delays in prior crashes.
What Diversions Are in Place?
No specific diversions mentioned for this minor RTC, given the partial blockage and expected quick clearance. Motorists advised to anticipate slow traffic between J5 and J6.
In more severe cases, diversions have been implemented. Manchester Evening News Facebook posts stated police putting blocks on M61 northbound, diverting to Kearsley Spur (A666). Lancashire Police noted a diversion route from J6 towards J8 in one incident.
When Will the M61 Reopen Fully?
Delays should clear quickly, per National Highways spokesperson, after vehicles moved to hard shoulder. This is a live incident with updates forthcoming.
Reopenings have varied; Daily Express reported full reopening southbound post-police incident. Highways NWEST on X confirmed closures due to collisions with serious injuries between J5 and J6.
Why Does the M61 Experience Frequent Disruptions?
The M61's location in Greater Manchester sees regular incidents, from minor RTCs like today's to police-led closures. Reports from multiple outlets, including BBC on northbound shuts near M6 and The Oldham Times on this event, highlight ongoing challenges.
As per RAC traffic news, roadworks and collisions contribute, with National Highways as primary source for updates. Past Express coverage noted lane closures causing chaos on M60/M61.
What Should Drivers Do During This Incident?
Drivers facing slow traffic from J5 to J6 should allow extra time, as per live reports. Monitor National Highways for updates on this breaking story.
In extended disruptions, National Highways advises patience and safe travel, as in their X statements. GMP Bolton North Facebook urged caution during closures.
Who Is Covering This Live Incident?
The Oldham Times is providing live coverage:
"LIVE - M61 partially blocked between Westhoughton and Horwich. M61 Northbound is partially blocked due to an accident... This is a live and breaking incident and we will bring you updates as we get them."
Attribution to their reporters ensures accuracy.
Additional context from Daily Express live blogs on similar closures. Social media from The Bolton News, GMP, and Manchester Evening News supplements official reports.