Overview
- The M6 in Cumbria is shut in both directions from 8pm Fri Jan 2 to 5am Mon Jan 5 for Network Rail to replace the Clifton bridge, with a second closure due Jan 9–12.
- National Highways set diversion routes: northbound via the A6 between J39 and J40, southbound HGVs via the A66 to the A1(M) at Scotch Corner, and other southbound traffic via the A66 and A685 to rejoin at J38.
- Cumbria Police reported slow-moving traffic after a broken-down HGV on the A6 diversion at Clifton, with recovery arranged and drivers urged to allow extra time.
- Met Office snow and ice warnings preceded multiple collisions and police-led closures across the region on Jan 2, with winter treatment teams re‑gritting and officers advising cautious driving.
- Parts of the A46 were closed in both directions after several vehicles slid off the icy carriageway and the A38 in Derby shut for gritting after a two‑car crash; no life‑threatening injuries were reported, and several northwest motorway incidents later cleared.