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Route information and related roads
Road details
About the M56
Approximate length33.3 miles
RouteManchester – Chester corridor
Eastern endGatley, Manchester
Western endDunkirk, A5117
Major areasManchester, Manchester Airport, Warrington, Runcorn, Ellesmere Port
Key connectionsM60, M6, M53
Connecting roads
M56 planned closures and diversions
M56 services
Motorway services guide →Selected service areas from operator listings. Check the operator for current facilities, access and opening times.
How busy is the M56?
2025 annual average179,634vehicles a day
J4 to J3 · Manchester
7,547 HGVs a day · 4.2% of traffic
Busiest published count location · both directionsM56 route and junction details
Selected junctions and connections. Check signs for permitted movements and current access.
- Connects M60
- M60 clockwise J4 → M56 westbound
Stoak Interchange
- Connects M53
- M53 southbound J11 → M56 eastbound
- M56 → M53 northbound
M56 traffic questions
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Where can I find M56 services?
The services section above lists service areas on the M56.
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