Overview
- Both carriageways are closed between Shap (J39) and Penrith (J40) from 8pm Friday, January 9, until 5am Monday, January 12, in the second planned weekend of works.
- Last weekend’s demolition cleared the old 60‑year‑old structure, paving the way for this weekend’s bridge lift over the M6.
- Official diversions route northbound traffic via the A6 to rejoin at J40, send southbound HGVs via the A66 to the A1(M), and direct other southbound drivers via the A66 and A685 to rejoin at J38, with the A6 southbound opened overnight subject to conditions.
- Cumbria Police is maintaining a visible enforcement presence after 44 actions were taken during the previous closure, with the same level of monitoring in place this weekend.
- Network Rail will renew more than 80km of overhead lines and continue signalling upgrades, with further West Coast Main Line closures confirmed from January 15 as part of a wider £196m improvement programme.