M6 corridor
Between March 2025 and February 2031 we're performing a number of road schemes on the M6 between junctions 33 (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
Network Rail’s main work to replace this major railway bridge at Clifton near Penrith was completed in January 2026.
Since then, finishing work to the bridge, surrounding area and motorway has continued. This is expected to be completed by autumn 2026.
Until this work is finished, two lanes will remain open in each direction.
A 50mph speed limit is in place through the works area.
For more information 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 a temporary 50mph speed limit while we work.
We’ll also be running two lanes out of three in each direction.
For more information, visit our M6 Lowther Bridge webpage.
M6 junction 36 near Kendal drainage works
We're repairing and improving drainage at M6 junction 36. We started work on Monday 17 November and expect to finish mid - May 2026.
We'll work using combination of lane, carriageway and slip road closures and temporary speed limit reductions.
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.
M6 junction 33 to 34 resurfacing
We’re resurfacing a section of the M6 northbound between junction 33 and 34 near Lancaster.
We’ll work overnight from Monday 29 June until Saturday 18 July 2026.
Drivers will be diverted via the A6 and A589 during closures.
Visit our North West maintenance schemes page for the latest information.
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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