LONG delays are expected next weekend as a section of the M56 closes again.

National Highways is warning drivers that work on a £23 million project to instal a new bridge carrying the A533 Expressway bridge over the motorway is likely to cause congestion.

The M56 will be closed in both directions between junction 11, Preston Brook, and junction 12, Clifton roundabout/Rocksavage Interchange from 9pm on Friday, October 28 until 6am on Monday, October 31.

It will be the second weekend this month that this section of the M56 has closed.

Sam Whitfield, National Highways’ project manager, said: “This work is an essential step in preparing for the installation of the replacement A533 Expressway bridge, which is currently being constructed off-site.

“We appreciate that this will cause some disruption to those who use the M56 and A533, and we thank you for your patience while we carry out this work.”

Delays are expected and drivers are advised to plan ahead to allow extra time for their journeys.

Clearly signed diversions will be in place.

Heavy traffic built up earlier this month when the M56 was closed on the same stretch from October 7-10.

Roads around Runcorn, Sutton Weaver and Warrington were congested.