M6 Traffic LIVE: Motorway Closed After Overturned Lorry Fire Between Kendal and Shap

Traffic on the M6 came to a standstill early this morning, Thursday, September 11, after a lorry overturned and caught fire on the northbound stretch of the motorway between Junction 37 (Kendal) and Junction 39 (Shap).

Emergency Services at the Scene

Cumbria Police, Cumbria Fire & Rescue, National Highways traffic officers, and recovery teams rushed to the scene in the early hours. Fire crews worked to bring the blaze under control while police officers managed traffic and kept motorists away from danger.

National Highways confirmed that all vehicles trapped behind the crash have now been released past the site. However, lane three of the M6 southbound, between J38 and J37, remains closed as a safety measure.

Diversion Route Announced

Drivers are being diverted away from the closed section. National Highways has set up an official diversion marked by hollow diamond symbols on local road signs. The diversion route is as follows:

• Exit the M6 at J36 (Farleton) and take the A590 westbound to Brettargh Holt junction.

• Continue on the A591 to Plumgarths Roundabout.

• Take the third exit onto the A5284 to Kendal.

• Follow the A5284 Windermere Road/Stricklandgate and turn left with all traffic onto A6 Sandes Avenue.

• Travel north on the A6 out of Kendal towards Shap Toll Bar junction.

• Turn right onto the B6261 and rejoin the M6 at J39 (Shap).

Drivers Advised to Avoid Area

Motorists have been urged to delay journeys or use alternative routes if possible. Heavy traffic remains in the area, and further delays are expected until the lorry is recovered and the motorway fully reopens.

Statement From National Highways

In a statement this morning, National Highways said:
“M6 northbound between J37 Kendal and J39 Shap Cumbria ROAD CLOSED. Due to an overturned lorry that is also on fire. All trapped traffic has now been released past the scene. Lane 3 (of 3) lanes are also closed on the M6 southbound between J38 and J37.”

Officials have not yet confirmed when the motorway will fully reopen.