Motorists using the M6 between Penrith and Kendal are being warned of significant disruption in early September, as overnight closures and lane restrictions on the M6 through the Lune Gorge coincide with other major infrastructure projects in the area.
National Highways has confirmed that the M6 will be closed overnight between junctions 37 and 38 while essential safety preparations take place ahead of a project to replace the * bridges that will last until 2031. The closures, which run from 8pm to 5am, are scheduled northbound from 1 September for around six nights and southbound from 8 September for around two nights. During this time traffic will be diverted between junctions 36 and 39 via Kendal, using the A6, A591 and A590. The work will include installing new road studs and refreshed line markings to improve visibility, erecting central reservation signage for the reduced 50mph speed limit, and placing temporary barriers for the safety of road users and workers.
when the overnight closures are lifted, long-term lane restrictions will remain in place until the project is completed in 2031. On the northbound carriageway, the hard shoulder and lane one will be closed between Borrowbeck and Castle Howe, while the same restrictions will apply on the southbound side between Castle Howe and Borrowbeck. Two lanes will stay open in both directions and junction 38 will remain accessible for now.
The works form part of a major programme to replace and refurbish the eight bridges that carry the M6 and A685 through the Lune Gorge, many of which are reaching the end of their serviceable life. Preparatory work will continue until spring 2027, when the main works will begin. These will run through to summer 2031 and involve the replacement of bridge beams, reconstruction of bridge decks and other essential structural maintenance. National Highways has stressed that the scheme is vital to keep the M6 functioning as a major north–south route.
The timing of the closures will add to disruption already being felt just south of Penrith, where Network Rail is carrying out a major railway bridge replacement at Clifton and National Highways is working on Lowther Bridge. Alongside the long-term upgrade of the A66, it means drivers in the Eden Valley and along the M6 through Cumbria face years of roadworks on the region’s busiest main transport routes.
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