A stretch of the M61 motorway remains closed southbound between Junction 5 (Westhoughton/Bolton) and Junction 4 (A6) following a serious police-led incident earlier this morning.

Emergency services were called shortly before 7:45am to reports of a concern for welfare. Police have confirmed that a woman has been taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The closure is the main cause of the significant disruption in the area, with traffic unable to pass through the affected stretch. As a result, long queues and severe delays have built up on approach routes, particularly around J5 near Westhoughton and Bolton, as vehicles are forced to exit and follow diversion routes.

Traffic travelling northbound between J4 and J5 has now been released, but the southbound carriageway remains shut while emergency services continue their response and investigations.

Diversion in place

Drivers heading south are being directed via a signed “Hollow Square” diversion route:

• Exit the M61 at J5 and take the A58 eastbound
• Continue to the A58/A6 Chequerbent roundabout and take the A6 southbound
• Follow the A6 to Watergate Lane
• Rejoin the M61 at J4

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys, consider alternative routes, or delay travel where possible.