A MAJOR change to a motorway used by around 180,000 drivers daily is set to take effect from today.
A reduced speed limit is being introduced on a long stretch of the M60, requiring motorists to slow down.
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The new limit on the motorway is to be set at 50mph – with the road slowed for at least three months.
The change was revealed in the wake of National Highways announcing a key programme of safety work along the motorway.
Work will stretch across several junctions on the busy carriageway, with motorists slowed as a result.
Traffic management will start at junction 16 and end east of junction 17 – with the project set to end in August with the speed limit change in place for the duration of the works.
Drivers have been told to expect delays throughout this period as motorway traffic is significantly slowed.
Work will take place mainly at night to reduce disruption, but the speed limit change will be in effect throughout the day.
Engineers will install a new central reservation between junction 16 and junction 18.
National Highways said: “We’ll mainly work at night Monday to Friday, but some activities will also be done during the day.
“For safety, a 50mph speed limit and narrow lanes will be in place round-the-clock throughout our work in both directions.
“Traffic management will start at junction 16 and finish east of junction 17 near Prestwich.
“Some minor delays are expected, so we’re advising drivers to plan and allow extra time to complete journeys.”
A resurfacing project will be undertaken at the same time to avoid disruption.
This project at junction 17 will require overnight closures for three weeks.
National Highways said: “To reduce disruption, we’re coordinating programmes with nearby resurfacing schemes at junction 17 close to Prestwich.
“This includes our work on slip roads and Bury Council’s project to resurface the junction roundabout.
“Please note, this requires overnight closures for three weeks from Monday 16 June to Friday 4 July.
“During any road closure, please follow the clearly signed diversion.
“We’re working hard to minimise the impact of our work. However, it will generate some delays and noise.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you and thank you for bearing with us.”
According to Highways England, some 180,000 drivers use the M60, as well as the M62, each day.
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