Live: m62 crash near Rochdale causes closures and diversions

Introduction: Why the m62 crash matters

The m62 crash near Rochdale has led to a full westbound closure of the motorway between junctions J20 (Rochdale) and J19 (Heywood). Disruptions on a major trans-Pennine route affect commuter flows, emergency access and local roads, making timely updates and diversion information essential for drivers and residents in Greater Manchester.

Main body: What has happened and current situation

Closure and emergency response

National Highways reported that all traffic has been held on the M62 westbound following a collision described as ‘very serious’. North West Motorway Police Group requested the closure between J20 and J19. Greater Manchester Police and the North West Ambulance Service are at the scene, and crews arrived quickly and are working alongside police and ambulance teams.

National Highways flagged heavy congestion on connecting routes as drivers avoid the closure. The A627(M) and local routes through Middleton and Rochdale are reported to be heavily congested.

Diversions in place

National Highways published a solid circle diversion for westbound traffic to bypass the closure. The advised route is:

• Leave the M62 westbound at J20.
• At the M62 J20/A627(M) roundabout take the first exit onto A627(M) southbound and follow for approximately 1.7km.
• Leave the A627(M) at the A627(M)/Slattocks Link Road roundabout and take the second exit onto Slattocks Link Road westbound for about 1.1km.
• At the Slattocks Link Road/A664 roundabout take the third exit onto A664 westbound (Slattocks Link) and follow for around 2.2km.
• At the A6046/M62 Jct 19 roundabout take the first exit and rejoin the M62 westbound.

Related incident

Separately, emergency services attended a three-car collision on the M62 eastbound on Sunday afternoon (March 1), for which an air ambulance was called. That incident is distinct from the current westbound closure but adds to recent operational pressures on motorway responders.

Conclusion: Implications and advice for readers

The m62 crash has immediate implications for motorists travelling westbound between Rochdale and Heywood and for drivers using nearby local roads. Motorists are advised to follow the published diversion, expect delays and allow extra travel time. Authorities remain on scene; further updates will come from National Highways, Greater Manchester Police and ambulance services as investigations and recovery work progress.