DRIVERS using the M6 through Cheshire are being advised that the southbound carriageway of the motorway around Sandbach will be closed from 10pm tonight, Thursday, for an emergency bridge inspection.

A full inspection of Manor Road Bridge (also known as Reynolds Lane Bridge) which runs over the motorway near Sandbach Services between junction 17 and 16 of the motorway, is taking place after this morning’s incident when two vehicles were struck by falling concrete.

An emergency inspection and remedial work was carried out this morning to allow the carriageway to re-open after it was closed for safety reasons following the incident at around 5.20am.

Drivers wishing to travel south beyond junction 17 after 10pm tonight will be diverted off the motorway at junction 17 and should follow the hollow circle diversion symbol via the A534 southbound towards Crewe – rejoining the M6 at junction 16 via the southbound A5020 and then eastbound A500.

The carriageway will remain closed until 5am tomorrow morning at the latest but the inspection should be completed before that time.

The Highways Agency advises drivers to check traffic conditions before setting out on journeys.

The Highways Agency provides live traffic information via its website, local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile platforms, such as the iPhone. Local Twitter services are also available at @HAtraffic_nwest and @HAtraffic_pen9 for Transpennine routes.