TRAFFIC was heavier than usual in Warrington and elsewhere this morning as motorists appeared to be trying to avoid the M56 – even though the motorway had been re-opened following yesterday’s incident when a tanker lorry overturned near Helsby.
The A56 was particularly busy as many drivers chose to avoid the motorway – possibly unaware that had re-opened.
The motorway re-opened in both directions around 4.30am after Highways England, working in partnership with emergency services, worked through the night to get the motorway open in time for the morning rush-hour.
The motorway was closed between junctions 11 and 14 westbound, and 14 and 12 eastbound while a significant quantity of a hazardous, but non-explosive, substance was cleared from the carriageway and barrier repairs were carried out. A significant amount of debris was also removed from the scene.
Highways England emergency planning manager Phil Stockford, said: “We would like to thank everyone affected by this incident for their patience and understanding whilst we worked to deal with this very difficult and complex situation.”
The incident caused major congestion between junctions 12-14, Hapsford and Runcorn, and the surrounding areas including Stretton.
Emergency services worked through the night dealing with the incident, as well as a second collision on the westbound carriageway which left three people with serious injuries, including a one-year-old boy.
Recovery work to remove the tanker was completed at 3.15am.
A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “The initial incident was extremely complex and involved an overturned HGV tanker carrying hazardous chemicals, which leaked onto the carriageway.
“Due to the nature of the tanker contents it took some time to establish the exact impact the chemicals could have on both people and the environment.
“Cheshire Fire and Rescue service followed a number of required procedures when dealing with spillages of this nature. These processes ensure the safety of the public and the emergency services staff who are required to respond to the immediate incident.”
Motorists close to the overturned tanker were evacuated from their vehicles and escorted to an emergency shelter at Hapsford Services.
People living near to the incident were advised to keep doors and windows shut as a precautionary measure until emergency services were able to establish if there was any risk to public health.
