The M58 motorway is one of North West England’s most important transport links, connecting Liverpool, Skelmersdale, Wigan, and the M6. Despite being relatively short at just 12 miles (19 km), the M58 plays a vital role in regional connectivity, freight movement, and daily commuting. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive FAQ guide to help you understand everything about this motorway – from its history and junctions to traffic updates and future developments.

What Is the M58 Motorway?

• Length: 12 miles (19 km)
• Opened: Constructed between 1977–1980
• Route: Runs from Switch Island (Aintree, Liverpool) to Orrell (Wigan), linking directly to the M6 motorway.
• Purpose: Provides a fast east–west connection between Merseyside docks and Greater Manchester, easing congestion on local A‑roads.

Why Was the M58 Built?
The M58 was designed to improve freight access from Liverpool’s docks to the M6 and beyond. It was also intended to connect with the M61 near Bolton, but that extension was never completed. As a result, the motorway today is sometimes described as “unfinished at both ends,” yet it remains a crucial corridor for logistics and commuters.

For more on UK motorway history, see the History of motorways in the United Kingdom.

How Busy Is the M58?
Surprisingly, the M58 is often described as quiet compared to other UK motorways, offering three lanes of relatively smooth travel. However, congestion can occur at its junctions, particularly:

• Switch Island (Liverpool) – a complex interchange with the M57 and A59.
• M6 Junction 26 (Orrell) – a busy node connecting long‑distance traffic.

For live updates, check National Highways traffic information.

What Are the Major Junctions on the M58?

• Junction 1: Switch Island (Aintree) – links to M57 and A59.
• Junction 3: Near Bickerstaffe – access to Skelmersdale.
• Junction 6: Orrell – connects to M6 motorway.

These junctions provide access to key towns including Maghull, Skelmersdale, Upholland, and Wigan.
Learn more about Skelmersdale and Wigan on Wikipedia.

Are There Any Future Plans for the M58?
Yes. Wigan Council has proposed a M58 Link Road connecting Junction 6 of the M58 to Junction 26 of the M6 and into Wigan town centre. This 2.3 km single carriageway aims to:

• Reduce congestion on Ormskirk Road (A577).
• Improve access to employment sites.
• Support economic growth in the borough.

What Areas Does the M58 Serve?
The motorway is vital for:

• Liverpool & Merseyside – freight access to docks.
• Skelmersdale – commuter and industrial traffic.
• Wigan & Greater Manchester – regional connectivity via the M6.

It also provides indirect links to Southport, Birkenhead, and Manchester, making it a strategic east–west corridor.
Tourists can explore nearby attractions like Aintree Racecourse and Wigan Pier.

What Are the Common Issues on the M58?

• Bad Junctions: The motorway is notorious for awkward junction layouts, averaging one “bad junction” every four miles.
• Unfinished Extensions: The planned link to the M61 was never built, limiting its potential.
• Congestion Points: Switch Island and M6 Junction 26 remain pressure points.

Is the M58 Good for Drivers?
Yes – many drivers appreciate the motorway’s smooth, flat, and relatively quiet lanes. It’s often faster than alternative A‑roads, though junction bottlenecks can frustrate commuters. For long‑distance hauliers, it’s a vital link between Liverpool’s docks and the national motorway network.

M58 - What a lovely motorway
The M58 motorway may be short, but it plays a big role in connecting Merseyside and Greater Manchester. From freight transport to daily commuting, it’s a vital artery that continues to evolve with new link road projects. Whether you’re a driver, commuter, or simply fascinated by UK motorways, the M58 is a fascinating case of ambition, practicality, and regional importance.

Celebrate the M58 Motorway with this Unique Gift!
If you’re a motorway enthusiast or know someone who loves quirky, road‑themed gifts, check out the “I Love the M58 Motorway Sign Teddy Bear” – a cute, funny, and cuddly present available now at Big Red Egg.

This teddy bear combines soft comfort with motorway nostalgia, making it the perfect gift for transport fans, collectors, or anyone who enjoys a touch of humour in their Christmas stocking. Just like the M58 itself, it’s a little unexpected, but absolutely unforgettable.