Drivers using the M6 today, Friday, August 28, 2026, should expect some disruption from ongoing roadworks and a number of lane restrictions along the motorway. National Highways continues to list planned works affecting different sections of the M6, meaning motorists should allow additional time for their journeys.
One of the longer-running restrictions is on the M6 southbound between Junctions 40 and 39, where maintenance works are scheduled to continue through November. Lane restrictions are also in place around Junction 40, potentially reducing available road space and contributing to slower traffic during busy periods.
Further north, restrictions have also been reported on the M6 southbound between Junctions 45 and 44. Roadworks in this area involve lane restrictions and changes to the use of the hard shoulder, requiring drivers to pay close attention to temporary traffic arrangements.
Another affected section is around Junction 2, where multiple southbound lanes were subject to overnight roadworks. Similar restrictions have been reported between Junctions 32 and 31A, with lane closures scheduled as part of ongoing motorway works.
Drivers travelling around the M6-M42 interchange should also be aware of continuing improvement works. A hard-shoulder closure on the northbound link between the M6 and M42 is scheduled to remain in place until September 7, potentially affecting traffic flow around the interchange.
The M6 is one of Britain’s busiest and longest motorways, running from the Midlands through the North West and toward the Scottish border. Because it carries significant commuter and freight traffic, even relatively short-term lane restrictions can result in queues building quickly, particularly during peak travel periods.
Motorists should therefore check live traffic information before setting out and remain alert for temporary speed limits, lane closures, congestion, and changes in traffic management. Drivers approaching roadworks should reduce speed and follow signs and instructions from traffic management teams.
Some of the restrictions listed for the early hours of Friday were scheduled to finish around 6 a.m., while other longer-term works remain active throughout the day. Conditions can change as works are completed, incidents occur, or traffic volumes increase.
At present, the available reports confirm ongoing roadworks and restrictions but do not establish a single major crash responsible for widespread disruption across the entire M6. Drivers should therefore avoid assuming that every delay on the motorway is connected to one incident.
Anyone planning a long journey on the M6 today should allow extra travel time and consider checking conditions immediately before departure. With multiple worksites operating along different sections, delays may vary considerably depending on the direction and junction being used.
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