TRAFFIC was backed up for over six miles on the M56 following a five-vehicle crash between Chester services and Runcorn.
Three lanes were closed following the collision involving four cars and a van on the eastbound carriageway between J14 A5117 (Chester Services /Helsby) to J12 A557 (Runcorn).
Motorists were faced with delays of well over an hour.
Emergency services were sent to the scene.
National Highways North West posted on Twitter: "The M56 eastbound J14/Chester Services to J12 Liverpool Airport/Runcorn two lanes have been closed due to a collision."
It added: "While the emergency services are at scene working, police have blocked the carriageway and are permitting vehicles to pass the location via the hard shoulder."
At 6.15pm, the Highways Agency North West reported all lanes had been reopened following the incident.
However, it will take time for the lengthy tailbacks to clear.
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