M6 corridor
Between March 2025 and February 2031 we're performing a number of road schemes on the M6 in Cumbria between junctions 34 (Lancaster) and 40 (Penrith).
The M6 is a vital route between the north and south of the United Kingdom.
We’re carrying out essential work to ensure it remains resilient and helps the region thrive for decades to come.
M6 corridor schemes
M6 Lune Gorge structures
The seven concrete bridges carrying the M6 over the Lune Gorge, Cumbria are reaching the end of their serviceable life.
We need to repair the bridges to reduce the need for costly, disruptive maintenance in future.
We're now preparing for our main works which are due to start in Spring 2027. Mainly we'll be making sure the M6 is strong enough for the contraflow system we'll use during main works.
For more information, including traffic management and road closures, visit our M6 Lune Gorge structures webpage.
M6 Clifton Bridge replacement
This major railway bridge carries the West Coast Main Line (WCML) over the M6 motorway. It's located south of Penrith, Cumbria between M6 junctions 39 and 40.
The WCML is one of the most important railway lines in the country, linking the north of England to Scotland. Network Rail is replacing the existing bridge with a new structure expected to last over 120 years.
We need to close the M6 in both directions between junction 39 (Shap) and 40 (Penrith) while:
- the old bridge is demolished
- the new bridge is installed
We've planned these closures over two weekends in January 2026.
For more information and weekend closure timings, visit our M6 Clifton Bridge webpage.
M6 Lowther Bridge
Lowther Bridge is over 50 years old. It needs substantial repairs to make sure it's safe and strong years to come.
Works include:
- replacing bridge joints
- waterproofing bridge decks
- improving drainage
- resurfaing and road marking.
Speed limit
To keep drivers and our workers safe, we’re using temporary speed limits while we work.
The clearly signed speed limit reduces to 50mph, then 40mph as you approach the works area.
Speed limits are enforced by speed cameras.
We'll also be running two lanes out of three in each direction.
For more information, visit our M6 Lowther Bridge webpage.
M6 junction 34 to 35 safety barrier replacement
We’re replacing over two miles of safety barrier on the M6 between junction 34 (Halton - north of Lancaster) and junction 35, Carnforth.
We started work on 25 September and expect to finish by end November 2025.
To work safely, we'll use a 24/7 lane closure in each direction and 50mph speed limit between junction 34 and 35.
Check our North West maintenance schemes page for updates and changes to our programme.
A66 Northern Trans-Pennine
We're improving the A66 between the M6 Penrith and A1(M) Scotch Corner.
Our scheme involves:
- upgrading single carriageway sections of road to dual carriageway
- improving junctions along the route.
We'll give a further update on delivery timings as part of the next Road Investment Strategy, which is scheduled to be published in March 2026.
For more information visit our A66 Northern Trans-Pennine webpage.
Project information
The M6 carries thousands of vehicles every day.
Over the next few years, we’ll be:
- replacing and renewing aging bridges, increasing their lifespan
- installing new safety barriers
- maintaining, waterproofing and resurfacing
M6 corridor schemes location map.
How we'll work
As we have several schemes along this stretch of the M6, our traffic management will vary:
- some schemes will involve long-term lane closures and reduced speed limits
- during main construction, the M6 Lune Gorge scheme will use a contraflow system
- at some times, we'll need overnight or weekend closures
We’ll provide advance notice of closures and details of diversion routes, so you can plan ahead.
Why we're working now
Much of the M6 in Cumbria was built in the 1960s.
Many of it's bridges and safety barriers are reaching the end of their service life.
Working now reduces the need for disruptive maintenance in future. Our work between junctions 34 and 40 will ensure the M6 is robust and reliable for decades to come.
How long will we be working
Different schemes will run between 2025 and 2031. Some will last only a few months, while others will take several years.
Lune Gorge is the most complex scheme and will take four years.
Will all schemes happen at the same time
No - each scheme has its own timetable though some will overlap.
We’re coordinating work carefully to give you clear information about what’s happening along the M6 corridor.
How often will we close the M6
We’ll try keep full closures to a minimum. Most of the time, the motorway will stay open.
We'll only use full closures when absolutely necessary for safety. For example, when demolishing or installing bridges.
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