Motorists in and around Preston face a sustained period of disruption as National Highways begins night-time resurfacing work on the M6 northbound at junction 31A and junction 32. The programme starts overnight on 26 July and will continue until 28 August, with works carried out Sunday evenings to Friday mornings between 20:00 and 06:00.
What drivers should expect
National Highways has said the majority of shifts will be managed using lane closures, but there are a number of planned full overnight closures when the carriageway or slip roads will be shut completely. Where closures are required, signed diversion routes will be in place and drivers are being urged to plan journeys in advance and allow extra time.
- Works duration: 26 July–28 August (overnight, Sunday to Friday, 20:00–06:00).
- Typical arrangement: lane closures most nights; some shifts require full overnight closures.
- Impact points: M6 junction 31A northbound and junction 32 northbound exit slip road and carriageway.
Planned full closures and diversion advice
National Highways has identified several dates when full closures are necessary. On those nights drivers will be required to follow signed diversions or use alternative junctions to reach their destinations. The authority has advised routes for drivers wishing to reach junction 32 during closures.
| Closure dates | Location affected | Driver action |
|---|---|---|
| 26–27 July | M6 junction 32 northbound exit slip road | Continue to junction 33, exit and return southbound to reach junction 32 |
| 28–29 July; 2–6 August | M6 northbound carriageway at junction 32 | Exit at junction 32 and follow signed diversion route |
| 9–12 August; 16 August | M6 junction 32 northbound exit slip road | Follow signed diversions; use junction 33 to rejoin where directed |
"Most nights will use lane closures only, but some overnight shifts will require full road closures."
The resurfacing is part of a wider maintenance programme on the motorway network. For Preston and the wider Lancashire area the scheduled closures are likely to affect commuter flows, freight movements and local journeys that use the M6 as a primary route.
Local consequences and advice
Even where only lanes are closed, the presence of roadworks can reduce capacity and increase journey times at peak departure windows in the early evening and the following morning. Businesses that rely on deliveries by HGV should review schedules in case of delays. Commuters travelling southbound who normally leave the M6 at junction 32 on affected nights should follow the guidance to continue to junction 33 and return, rather than attempting to use the closed slip roads.
National Highways will operate signed diversions and is expected to publish the full programme and any updates on its website and traffic-management channels. Road users are advised to check before travelling, allow additional time for journeys and consider alternative routes where possible.
Local authorities and emergency services are typically notified of planned closures to ensure contingency arrangements are in place; drivers should also follow local signage and the instructions of any traffic officers at the scene.
