M55 motorway (Preston Northern Bypass)

Route and characteristics

The M55 links the principal north–south route at the M6 near Preston with roads leading into Blackpool and adjacent towns. Built to motorway standards, it features dual carriageways, grade-separated junctions and the typical motorway speed limit. The corridor forms an important radial link from the national motorway network to coastal attractions.

• Length: approximately 12 miles (19 km).
• Main connections: Preston and the M6 to coastal routes toward Blackpool.
• Design: dual carriageway with controlled access and motorway signage.
• Traffic patterns: a mix of commuter, freight and seasonal tourism traffic.

History and development

Conceived to improve journeys between inland Lancashire and the coast, the corridor was constructed in stages in the mid to late 20th century. It was intended both to speed travel to popular seaside destinations and to reduce congestion on smaller regional roads that formerly carried long-distance traffic.

Uses and importance

The route is especially busy at weekends and during holiday periods when many people travel to the coast; leisure journeys have long been a major factor in its use and planning. Beyond tourism, the M55 supports daily commuting into Preston, local distribution and access to employment areas, acting as a short but strategic link in the regional transport network. Many visitors go on holiday to the Fylde coast, which helps explain the motorway's importance.

Notable facts and future outlook

Although relatively short compared with major trunk motorways, the M55 plays a key role in Lancashire's road hierarchy. Periodic upgrades to junctions and safety improvements have been implemented to handle demand, and future changes typically focus on reducing congestion, improving junction efficiency and addressing environmental concerns along the corridor.