Drivers in Cumbria have been warned of further disruption on the M6 this weekend as Network Rail prepares to install a replacement bridge over the motorway.
The closure will affect both northbound and southbound carriageways between junction 39 at Shap and junction 40 at Penrith.
The agency explained how work is scheduled to begin tomorrow from 8pm on Friday and continue until 5am on Monday.
The project forms part of the wider Clifton Bridge replacement scheme, vital for maintaining the West Coast Main Line railway network.
Ahead of the work, National Highways has urged drivers to use official diversion routes or avoid the area entirely while the work is carried out.
Last weekend, the previous bridge structure was successfully removed during an initial closure, clearing the way for the new installation.
While traffic was heavier during the day, overnight openings of the A6 southbound helped ease congestion and shorten journey times, particularly for lorries.
Three main diversion routes have been put in place for motorists needing to travel through the area. Northbound traffic has been instructed to leave the M6 at junction 39 and follow the A6, rejoining the motorway at junction 40 via Kemplay Roundabout.
The M6 will be closed between junction 39 at Shap and junction 40 at Penrith | NATIONAL HIGHWAYSMeanwhile, Heavy Goods Vehicles heading south will need to exit at junction 40, take the eastbound A66 to Scotch Corner, and join the A1(M).
Other southbound drivers have been advised to follow the A66 towards Brough, then continue via the A685 through Kirkby Stephen to reconnect with the M6 at junction 38 near Tebay.
With overnight traffic between Friday and Sunday, the southbound A6 may also be opened as a quicker alternative, depending on traffic conditions, National Highways explained.
During last weekend's closure, National Highways reported that many drivers followed advice to delay journeys or use alternative routes, which helped reduce traffic volumes.
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The M6 will close its lanes this weekend following repair works to the bridge
| NATIONAL HIGHWAYSHowever, some local residents reported motorists attempting to bypass official diversions, resulting in fixed penalty notices being issued.
Road traffic incidents and vehicle breakdowns along diversion routes caused some delays, but National Highways said it deployed recovery teams promptly to keep traffic moving.
Steve Mason, programme delivery manager for National Highways, said: "We'd like to thank motorway users and particularly local people for their support over the weekend.
"There was congestion during the day, as expected, but diversion routes worked well and, as promised, the southbound A6 was open overnight to reduce journey times for all motorists, including HGV drivers."
The M6 junction will be closed from 8pm on Friday until 5am on Monday, January 12
| NATIONAL HIGHWAYSHe added for this weekend, the agency would urge anyone planning to drive through this part of Cumbria to "postpone if possible".
"Those who must travel should check traffic and weather conditions and follow official diversion routes – or choose routes well away from the county," he said.
Cumbria Police will maintain a strong presence during the closure, with Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick confirming officers will work alongside National Highways and Westmorland and Furness Council to monitor traffic movements.
Last weekend, police carried out 44 enforcement actions, supported by Roads Policing Officers and Safety Camera Vans. The same level of enforcement and oversight will be in place this weekend.
Chief Superintendent Patrick said: "We are continuing our partnership approach and will closely monitor traffic movements. Drivers should follow diversion routes and plan ahead to avoid penalties or delays."
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