Storm Gertrude affects travel around Lancaster

The M6 southbound from junction 34-33, which was due to close on Friday and Saturday January 29 and 30 between 8pm and 6am, will now remain open.

Strong winds are expected across the district throughout the weekend, and Network Rail has advised rail passengers to check before they travel.

Cautionary speed restrictions of 50mph will be in place on Friday morning on the West Coast main line between Tebay and Oxenholme when the strongest winds are predicted to minimise the chances of any damage to the overhead lines. Restrictions will also be in place between Settle and Carlisle.

In Lancaster and Morecambe, the A683 dual carriageway will be closed from Northgate to Mellishaw Roundabout to allow for loops for traffic lights signals to be installed between 7.30am and 5pm between Monday and Friday, a spokesman for Costain said.

Barley Cop Lane under the existing rail bridge near Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium was closed on Monday January 4 for extensive works on the drainage system to help prevent further flooding.

Costain said the work should be complete, weather permitting, on Tuesday February 2, with access to the crematorium via Torrisholme Road.

Network Rail has also advised train passengers to check before they travel as Wales, northern England and western Scotland brace for the arrival of Storm Gertrude.