A VEHICLE fire has sparked long delays on the M56 near Helsby today (October 15).
The incident has occurred westbound and Highway North West says the carriageway is blocked between J12 Sutton Weaver and J14 Hapsford.
M56, Helsby Hill. Smoke has been billowing from a vehicle on the side of the road for 25 minutes. We’ve finally seen an emergency vehicle……unfortunately it’s a fire engine going the wrong way.
— Alison Parr (@Uptotherewithit) October 15, 2023
Flames now.
We’re all hoping that a fire engine will come sometime in the future. pic.twitter.com/9XrAiRdWH4
The fire service and other emergency services are in attendance.
As of 6pm, traffic has opened in one lane - with the other two remaining closed. Heavy congestion remains in the area, stretching from Preston Brook to the M53/Ellesmere Port turn off.
A Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "A hose reel jet was used by firefighters in breathing apparatus to put out a blaze involving a car on the M56. A thermal imaging camera was then used to monitor temperatures. Police and ambulance were also in attendance."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here