The M56 is set to be realigned as a part of the plan for a combined High Speed Two (HS2) and Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) train station on the edge of Trafford.

A proposal was revealed by the authorities this week and aims to prepare the exit for Hale Barns and Manchester Airport for a rise in traffic caused by the train station.

In partnership with National Highways, the M56 is set to be realigned and Junction Six is set to be turned into a roundabout, with link roads to connect it to the local network and HS2 in a tunnel underneath.

The existing roundabouts are set to be turned into a signal-controlled operation, as are the existing crossroads between Avro Way and Runger Lane, with a flyover across Hale Road parallel to the motorway.

Liz Garlinge, of National Highways, said: "National Highways welcomes these improved plans for the M56 Junction Six. As well as providing access to the proposed HS2 NPR train station, this integrated approach to planning will contribute to the future needs of the region and better journeys for all our customers."

Ms Garlinge said HS2 is in contact with those affected by the change, which comes at the same time as work to turn the M56 into a smart motorway between Junction Six and Junction Eight comes to an end. National Highways told The Messenger this work, which started in 2020, is set to be completed 'this month'.

The plan for the section of the rail link from Crewe to Manchester was introduced to the House of Commons last year, with a select committee appointed to listen to petitioners in the weeks and months ahead.

If approved, construction on this section of HS2 is scheduled to start in the mid-2020s. It is scheduled to come into operation by 2040.

For information, residents are asked to contact HS2 on 08081 434 434 or hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk. There is also an online event and an in-person event at the Marriott Manchester Airport Hotel next month.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.