The M6 motorway closure has become one of the most talked-about transport issues for drivers and rail passengers heading through Cumbria this winter. Thousands of motorists are being affected as a key stretch of one of the UK’s busiest motorways shuts down to allow essential bridge replacement work above the West Coast Main Line.
This temporary but significant shutdown is necessary to demolish the ageing Clifton Bridge and install a modern replacement, ensuring safer and more reliable journeys for both road and rail users in the years ahead.
M6 Motorway Closure: Why the Bridge Replacement Is Essential
The M6 motorway closure is driven by the urgent need to replace Clifton Bridge, a structure that has been in service for more than 60 years. The bridge spans the West Coast Main Line, one of the most important rail corridors in the UK, linking London with major cities in the North West and Scotland.
Over time, wear and tear have made replacement unavoidable. The £60 million project will not only remove the old bridge safely but also install a new steel structure designed to last for decades.
M6 Motorway Closure: Dates, Times, and Affected Sections
Drivers should take note of the two planned closure windows linked to the M6 motorway closure:
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First closure: 8pm on Friday, 2 January 2026, reopening at 5am on Monday, 5 January 2026
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Second closure: 8pm on Friday, 9 January 2026, reopening at 5am on Monday, 12 January 2026
The closed section runs between Junction 39 (Shap) and Junction 40 (Penrith), with both northbound and southbound carriageways affected.
Around 50,000 vehicles normally use this stretch each day. Although January weekends are typically quieter, delays are still expected.
M6 Motorway Closure: Official Diversion Routes Explained
To manage traffic during the M6 motorway closure, signed diversion routes will be in place:
Northbound Diversions
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Exit the M6 at Junction 39
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Follow the A6 northbound
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Rejoin the motorway at Junction 40 via the Kemplay roundabout
Southbound Diversions
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HGVs: Exit at Junction 40, take the A66 eastbound, then join the A1(M) at Scotch Corner
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Cars and local traffic: Follow the A66 east to Brough, then take the A685 south to rejoin the M6 at Junction 38 (Tebay)
Towns such as Kirkby Stephen, Clifton, and Shap will see increased traffic, particularly overnight, as authorities work to spread the impact across different areas.
M6 Motorway Closure: Services and Travel Planning Tips
Despite the M6 motorway closure, Tebay Services will remain fully open, providing a vital rest stop for diverted drivers. Motorists are strongly advised to:
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Allow extra journey time
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Follow diversion signs rather than sat-nav shortcuts
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Use live traffic updates from National Highways.
Planning ahead can significantly reduce stress and unexpected delays.
M6 Motorway Closure: Rail Disruption and Bus Replacements
The bridge replacement work also causes major rail disruption alongside the M6 motorway closure. The West Coast Main Line will see extensive changes, including:
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Bus replacement services between Preston and Carlisle until 5 January
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Continued bus services between Carlisle and Dumfries or Lockerbie until 7 January
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Buses operating between Oxenholme and Carlisle until 15 January
A limited shuttle train will run on the Settle Carlisle line, though some stations will not be served. Rail passengers should check updates through Network Rail or National Rail Enquiries at nationalrail.co.uk before travelling.
M6 Motorway Closure: Inside the New Clifton Bridge
The new bridge being installed during the M6 motorway closure is an engineering milestone:
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Length: 427 feet
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Weight: 4,200 tonnes
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Material: High-strength steel
Constructed nearby, the bridge will be moved into position during the closures, replacing the old structure in a carefully rehearsed operation. Advanced 4D planning simulations have been used to minimise risks and delays.
M6 Motorway Closure: Long-Term Benefits for Road and Rail
While disruptive in the short term, the M6 motorway closure supports a much wider upgrade programme. Alongside the bridge replacement, the West Coast Main Line is receiving:
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Overhead line upgrades across 80 kilometres
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Modernised signalling systems
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Improved reliability and reduced journey times
These improvements are critical for one of Britain’s busiest rail routes, benefiting commuters, long-distance travellers, and freight operators alike.
Local Impact and Community Response
Local residents have acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the M6 motorway closure, particularly increased noise and traffic through smaller towns. However, many accept the necessity of the work, recognising that replacing outdated infrastructure now prevents more serious disruptions in the future.
Weekend scheduling and January timing were chosen specifically to reduce weekday congestion and business impact.
M6 Motorway Closure: Final Advice for Drivers and Passengers
As the M6 motorway closure continues, staying informed is essential. Drivers should rely on official road updates, while rail users must check timetables regularly due to changing bus schedules.
Although temporary, this closure highlights the importance of maintaining and upgrading the UK’s transport network. With patience and planning, travellers can navigate the disruption safely while looking forward to smoother, more reliable journeys once the work is complete.
For ongoing updates, visit: National Highways and Network Rail
Safe travels to everyone affected.
