THE Northbound carriageway between Junction 39-Junction 40 on M6 Cumbria will be closed until Saturday whilst emergency services and recovery operations respond to a lorry which overturned this morning near Penrith. 

Traffic diversions have been in place for most of the day after the HGV overturned spilling diesel and causing damage to the carriageway and safety barrier. 

Emergency services will be working overnight to clear the debris and clear the HGV. 

Traffic has been at a standstill for hours and Cumbria Police and Highways Agency  have worked on diversions to clear halted traffic.

Drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. 

Westmorland & Furness Council Highways have issued the following statement: "M6 - Important travel update Junctions 39-40 - Please be advised that a lorry has shed its load onto the M6 northbound between junctions 39-40.

"There is currently a full closure on the northbound carriageway, and a partial closure (one lane open) on the southbound carriageway.

"The road will remain closed until at least Saturday 13/04/24.  A diversion is in place using the A6 between Shap and Penrith, with northbound traffic currently queuing back to Junction 38. Traffic is stationary/slow-moving on A6.

"Please drive carefully and make alternative travel plans to avoid this area if possible.