THE southbound stretch of the M53 is currently closed near Ellesmere Port after an issue with the road was discovered during planned overnight works.

The motorway is currently closed between Junction 9 with the A5032 (Station Road) and Junction 11, where the M53 meets the M56.

Emergency drainage repairs are currently underway after the issue was found in the early hours of this morning (Sunday, April 7).

National Highways say the nature of the issue means that the road will remain closed until at least tomorrow.

Diversions in place

Diverted traffic is advised to follow the hollow triangle diversion symbol:

  • Exit the M53 southbound at J9 (Ellesmere Port) and join the A5032 Station Road southbound
  • Continue southbound, passing through Ellesmere Port until Strawberry Roundabout with the A5117 at Beckford Cross.

Traffic wishing to continue onward to re-join the M53 southbound at J12:

  • Continue straight over Strawberry Roundabout and continue on Whitby Lane
  • At the junction with the A41 Liverpool Road, turn left and join the A41 southbound
  • Continue on the A41 southbound towards Chester
  • At Hoole Roundabout with the A56, turn left onto the A56 Warrington Road and continue a short distance to then re-join the M53 southbound

Traffic wishing to join the M56 eastbound:

  • Turn left at Strawberry Roundabout and join the A5117 Strawberry Way eastbound
  • Continue until the M53 J10 roundabout
  • Join the M53 southbound and then merge onto the M56 eastbound to continue onward journey

Motorist needing to use the route are being advised to allow extra time for their journey.