UK Road Closed: National Highways

A section of the motorway network in Lancashire will be closed overnight as part of an ongoing programme of maintenance and improvement works. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and check for alternative routes before embarking on their journeys. The closure will be in place on the M55 motorway, between junctions 1 and 3, near Blackpool, from 11pm on the night of 9 August 2026 until 4am on 10 August 2026. National Highways, the organisation responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the country's strategic road network, has confirmed that the closure is necessary to facilitate essential repairs and upgrades to the motorway.

These works form part of a larger programme of investment by National Highways to improve the resilience, safety, and efficiency of the UK's motorway network. The organisation's Transport Data Feeds are being utilised to provide real-time information to drivers, enabling them to make informed decisions about their journeys and plan around the closure. Motorists are encouraged to check the latest traffic updates and road conditions before setting out, using apps such as Waze or Google Maps to find the most up-to-date information.

The affected section of the M55 will be completely closed to all traffic during the overnight period, with diversions in place to direct drivers around the closure. Motorists are advised to follow the signed diversion routes and to allow plenty of time for their journeys. The closure is scheduled to take place between 11pm and 4am, although it is possible that the works may be completed earlier than anticipated. In this event, the motorway may be reopened earlier, but motorists are advised to remain vigilant and to check for updates before embarking on their journeys.

The works are part of a larger programme of investment by National Highways to improve the resilience, safety, and efficiency of the UK's motorway network. The organisation is committed to providing drivers with the information they need to make informed decisions about their journeys, and to ensuring that the motorway network is safe and efficient for all users.

For the latest information on this closure and other roadworks, please visit Road Closures UK or check the National Highways website for the most up-to-date information. Motorists can also follow National Highways on Twitter for real-time updates on road conditions and traffic.