A closure is causing heavy traffic on the A56 in Rossendale this morning.

National Highways North West said a vehicle that has broken down on the southbound carriageway between Rawtenstall and the M66 at Edenfield is causing congestion of up to three miles.

One lane has been closed as police and traffic officers respond, with recovery en route to the scene.

Commuters are expected to experience delays of around 25 minutes or more in the area. 

Traffic monitoring service Inrix reports 'heavy traffic' between Haslingden and the Ramsbottom junction.

AA Traffic News said there are 'severe delays' on the A56 southbound with congestion 'increasing'.

The incident is causing delays on neighbouring roads, such as Haslingden Road, the A682, Blackburn Road, Market Street and Manchester Road.

National Highways North West posted on X, formerly Twitter, and said: "Lane 1 is CLOSED on the #A56 southbound between #A682#Rawtenstall and #M66, #Edenfield due to a broken down vehicle.

"Recovery has been arranged and is en route to scene.

"There are currently delays of 25 mins and approx.

"3 miles of congestion."