By Paul Britton
A section of the M60 motorway is likely to remain fully closed for ‘a substantial amount of time’ after a horror crash involving four HGVs and four cars, National Highways said. One of the HGVs is said to have shed its load of beer barrels onto the carriageways as a result. Another HGV involved in the smash crossed through the central reservation barrier and ‘struck several lamp columns’, the agency added. ‘Several’ ruptured fuel tanks have also been reported, with diesel spilling out onto the motorway surface. Thankfully, only minor injuries have been reported. North West Ambulance Service North West Ambulance Service said three people were taken to hospital for further treatment, with six others assessed at the scene for minor injuries. But National Highways warned of widespread disruption. It said in a statement: “It has been confirmed there were only minor injuries from the collision, but it is expected the road will remain closed in both directions for a substantial amount of time due to the amount of infrastructure damage, spillage, debris clean-up and the recovery of several substantially damaged large vehicles.” One motorist said police were preparing to cut through a section of central reservation barrier to release trapped cars onto the opposite carrigeway. Images from the scene showed drivers and passengers out of their vehicles. Never miss a story with the MEN’s daily Catch Up newsletter – get it in your inbox by signing up here The closure is in force in both directions between junction 25 for Bredbury Interchange and the A560 in Stockport , and junction one at Pyramid Roundabout. National Highways added: “This is due to a multi-vehicle collision involving four heavy goods vehicles and four cars. “One of the heavy goods vehicles has crossed through the central reservation barrier and struck several lamp columns in the process. One of the other heavy goods vehicles has shed its load of beer barrels in to the road. Additionally there are several ruptured fuel tanks from the collision which have resulted in a large amount of diesel across the carriageway in both directions. Join our Traffic and Travel WhatsApp group HERE ” Greater Manchester Police , Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service, National Highways Traffic Officers and maintenance contractors are attending this incident. “Road users caught within the closures will be released in due course and National Highways and Greater Manchester Police are making every effort to do this as quickly as possible. However, it may take some time for all traffic within the closures to be cleared and we apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience if impacted.” The knock-on has also reportedly led to heavy traffic in and around Stockport town centre. A full diversion is in place.