Animal Incident Causes Major Delays on M6 Motorway in Staffordshire

Motorists traveling on the M6 motorway in North Staffordshire experienced significant delays on October 9, 2023, due to loose animals on the road. The incident occurred between Junction 14, near Stafford North, and Junction 15, near Stoke-on-Trent, affecting traffic in both directions.

An alert issued by traffic management service Inrix shortly before 9:25 a.m. confirmed the situation, stating, “All traffic being temporarily held and stationary traffic due to animals on road on M6 in both directions from J14 A34 (Stafford North) to J15 A500 D Road (Stoke-on-Trent).” It was reported that the incident was located closer to Junction 15.

National Highways later clarified that a herd of sheep was the cause of the obstruction. Dave Knapper, reporting live updates from the scene, noted that the presence of the sheep had necessitated the closure of two lanes on the northbound side of the motorway. Meanwhile, all lanes on the southbound side remained open. Despite this, travelers were experiencing delays of around 45 minutes in both directions.

Live motorway cameras captured images of the sheep on the nearside verge, indicating ongoing efforts to secure the animals and restore traffic flow. Police officers and traffic officials were seen at the site, working to manage the situation.

As a result of the congestion on the M6, motorists sought alternative routes, contributing to increased traffic on the A34 through Yarlet. In a social media post on platform X, formerly known as Twitter, National Highways stated, “Traffic has been STOPPED in both directions on the #M6 in #Staffordshire between J14 (#Stafford) and J15 (#StokeOnTrent) due to a herd of sheep which are wandering close to the carriageway. Our Traffic Officers are working to get them to safety. Thanks for your patience.”