Drivers using the M6 in Lancashire and Cumbria between junction 33 and 39 are being advised to stick to lane one as the Highways Agency works to clear the network of ice caused by freezing rain.
As warned by the Highways Agency last night (and as we noted earlier after a warning from the police) a combination of freezing rain and sub zero temperatures on carriageway surfaces has led to ice patches along the M6 even where lanes have been treated.
Service Delivery Manager Andy Withington said, “Our contractors have been out treating the network continuously since last night and we are working to clear ice from lanes along the M6.
“As the action of tyres on treated surfaces activates salt more effectively, drivers will find it safer to stay in lane one if travelling through north Lancashire and Cumbria rather than the less trafficked lanes 2 and 3.
The A66 has also closed at Bowes because of ice. However, drivers who have to use this road are also advised to stay in lane 1 on the dual carriageway sections.
Drivers are also been urged to make extra time for journeys, slow down and leave extra room for braking as well as heeding electronic message signs.