M56 traffic LIVE updates as drivers hit by 90-MINUTE queues with lanes shut

Drivers are facing huge queues on the M56 in Cheshire following an oil spillage. Two lanes are currently closed this morning (January 8) on the westbound carriageway, affecting drivers heading from Greater Manchester towards Chester and North Wales. The lane closures are in place between junctions 12 at Runcorn and 14 at Elton.

National Highways says emergency works are taking place on the road following an oil and diesel spillage. Queues of around seven miles are affecting motorists, with 90-minute delays reported. It follows an overturned lorry on the motorway on Wednesday night.

A National Highways north west spokesperson posted on X: "Lanes 1 & 2 (of 3) remain closed on the #M56 westbound between J12 (#Runcorn) & J14 (#Elton) for emergency works to treat an oil and diesel spillage. There are 90 min delays above normal travel time with 7 miles congestion on approach. Allow extra journey time."

This is a live event.

Follow the latest updates below.