Highways Agency - Safe roads, Reliable journeys, Informed travellers

Facts and Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What work is to be carried out?

A: A new lane is to be construction within the existing highway boundary, in the anti clockwise direction, between Junctions 15 and 12 of the M60.

Q: Why is the work needed?

A: The M60 between Junctions 15 and 12 is one of the most heavily trafficked sections of road in the United Kingdom and is under considerable stress. The anti-clockwise section is heavily congested and is characterised by low speeds, queuing and poor journey time reliability. This congestion is impacting on local roads as well as causing queuing on the southbound M61.

By creating an additional lane we will help reduce congestion problems caused by local traffic weaving to access Junctions 13 & 12, which will also improve safety and create extra capacity on the network.  

Q. Will you be required to purchase land?

A: The new lane is to be delivered within the existing highway boundary. This land is already owned by the highways agency.

Q: How much will the works cost?

A:  The works are estimated to cost in the range of £27m to £43m

Q: How will you minimise congestion during the work on what is a busy section of the road?

A: Whenever possible work will be carried out outside of peak periods and when traffic is light.

Q: Will there be speed limit changes and why?

A: During construction work speed restrictions will be in place in order to ensure the safety of both road workers and motorists. Speed restrictions will be lifted when there isn't any work taking place.

Q: What will be the effect to the environment of all this construction activity?

A: We are committed to the environment and take our environmental responsibilities very seriously. Our commitment to the environment has been demonstrated on numerous occasions where we have undertaken major work, whether it's re-homing local wildlife, or protecting archeologically important sites.