This morning, a serious incident on the A56 in Rossendale caused significant traffic delays. A heavy goods vehicle (HGV) collided with the central reservation and overturned at around 6:00 a.m., closing both lanes of the dual carriageway. Emergency services were on scene immediately, and the stretch between Edenfield and Haslingden was closed. Drivers are being advised to steer clear of the area and seek alternative routes.
Diversions and traffic impact
The closure has led to heavy delays, particularly during the morning rush hour. Southbound motorists are being diverted via the A681, A680, B6257 and Bury Road before rejoining the M66. Northbound traffic is leaving the M66 at junction 1 and following Bury Road and the B6257 before safely getting back on to the A56. Drivers are urged to heed all diversion signs and check live traffic updates before setting off.
Major delays on #A56 after #Lorry overturns near Rossendale
🔗 https://t.co/2bwjyOyteF#Collision #Haslingden #Hgv #M66 #Manchester #Police #truckingNews pic.twitter.com/SumZ5Gq6B3— Translogistics Network (@RHAMembers) August 18, 2025
Emergency response and safety concerns
Emergency services, including Lancashire Police and National Highways officers, remain at the scene. A diesel spill has been reported, complicating the clean-up and keeping the carriageway closed for longer. Authorities warn that the route may stay shut for several hours until recovery work and safety inspections are complete. Motorists should allow extra time for their journeys and avoid the area if they can.
The #A56 is CLOSED in both directions between the #M66 (#Edenfield) and the #A682 (#NewHallHey) due to a collision where a lorry has struck the central reservation barrier.
If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time pic.twitter.com/VCcDgZ0d05
— National Highways: North-West (@HighwaysNWEST) August 18, 2025
Local impact and community response
The closure is affecting residents, commuters and local businesses across Rossendale. Deliveries are being delayed and workers are facing longer journeys on key routes. The A56 is a vital artery for the borough, and incidents like this can have a knock-on effect in surrounding communities. Locals have been sharing updates online to help others find alternative routes, showing the area’s strong community spirit during the disruption.
