Major Road Transformation Approved: M60/M62/M66 Simister Island Interchange Set for Revamp

When: The consent order has been made as of 9th September 2025 and will come into force on 30th September 2025.

Where: The Simister Island Interchange, which connects the M60, M62, and M66 motorways in Greater Manchester, is the focus of major infrastructure improvements.

What’s Happening: The UK government has green-lit a significant overhaul of the Simister Island Interchange, aimed at reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. The development consent order (2025 No. 1018) allows for the expansion and reconfiguration of several key road sections, including:

• M60 and M62 Carriageway Expansions: The project will widen parts of the M60 and M62 to increase lane capacity, incorporating new slip roads and re-aligned intersections to enhance traffic efficiency.

• New Structures: Construction includes new viaducts and gantries equipped with advanced traffic management technology.

• Environmental and Safety Enhancements: The plan also integrates environmental mitigation measures, such as ecological ponds and hedgerow management, alongside safety improvements like noise barriers and better pedestrian pathways.

Temporary and Permanent Changes:

• Temporary: Certain roads and rights of way will face temporary closures or restrictions during construction phases. National Highways will manage traffic to minimise disruption.

• Permanent: Some streets and public rights of way will be permanently stopped up, with alternative routes provided to ensure continued accessibility.

Land and Rights Acquisition: National Highways Limited is authorised to acquire land and rights necessary for the project, either compulsorily or by agreement. This includes temporary land use for construction and maintenance activities.

Community and Environmental Considerations: The project includes a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan, with measures to mitigate impacts on local biodiversity and manage construction-related nuisances like noise and dust.

Next Steps: With the order coming into force at the end of September, preparatory work will commence shortly, with a focus on detailed design and stakeholder engagement to refine implementation plans.

This redevelopment is poised to significantly enhance the functionality of a critical transport link in the North West, promising smoother journeys and economic benefits for the region. For detailed plans and updates, stakeholders and the public can access documents at National Highways’ Manchester office.