A pedestrian has been hit by a car on the M57 as police declare a "major incident" on the motorway.
Emergency services were called to the junction near Switch Island, shortly after 6pm on Friday, to reports of a crash on the northbound carriageway .
Officers remain at the scene and drivers are asked to avoid the area as an investigation into the incident has just been launched.
UPDATE: Police confirm pedestrian has died after being hit by a car on M57 - full story here
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said the motorway is likely to remain closed for a "considerable time" between Switch Island and Kirkby .
In a statement, the force said: "We can confirm that emergency services are on the scene of a serious road traffic collision on the M57 today, Friday 1 November.
"At around 6.15pm, reports were received of a collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle near to the northbound junction for Switch Island.
"Officers are on the scene as we look to establish the full circumstances.
"A road closure will be in place both northbound and southbound between Junction 6 for Kirkby and Junction 7 for Switch Island for a considerable time and road users are asked to avoid the area while the investigation is carried out.
"Further updates will be issued when appropriate."
On Twitter, Merseyside Police contact centre also asked drivers to avoid Switch Island if possible.
The tweet said: "Please be aware that we have had a major incident on the M57 near to the switch island junction so avoid if possible, thanks."
North West Motorway Police also posted on Twitter to advise those trapped in traffic queues about the arrangements being made to move them.
They tweeted: "#M57 - Police incident @MerPolTraffic patrols, Ambulance and Highways are now on scene.
"The Motorway will be closed for some time. We will be turning traffic round when we can.
"We have a closure on the NORTHBOUND in place not at junction 6 Please avoid the area."
A short time later they tweeted again: "#M57 will be closed for some time NB between J6-J7, south is also closed at this time.
"Those motorists held between J6 & the scene, preparations are being made to escort you back to junction 6.
"Please do not move until instructed for your own safety and that of those around you."
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC or 101 with reference 843.
