Drivers have been warned to expect delays of more than an hour after animal rights protesters moved onto the M57 motorway.
Traffic was stopped both directions between junction 1, Manchester, and J2, Prescot, after a small group protesters dressed in pink reportedly occupied the northbound road.
Traffic management Inrix said: "All traffic being temporarily held and stationary traffic due to demonstration on M57 in both directions from J1 M62 J6 (Tarbock Island) to J2 A57 Liverpool Road (Prescot)."
READ MORE: Nine people arrested at Aintree Racecourse
Southbound traffic was released at 6pm, with northbound traffic being released a short time later.
However, National Highways North-West said delays of "over an hour" remain in the area, as northbound traffic is being diverted off at the junction 2 exit sliproad and back on at the entry sliproad.
It is believed the protesters are connected to Animal Rising activists at Aintree Racecourse, who delayed the 175th Grand National race after climbing over a fence.
Merseyside Police said a "large number" of protesters attempted to gain entry on to the course at around 5pm today, April 15. Nine people were arrested after they breached the boundary fence and entered the course, where at least two reportedly used glue and lock-on devices to attach themselves to jumps on the track.
Merseyside Police has also said a further 23 arrests have been made as the police operation continues at Aintree Racecourse to ensure the safety of the event.
Animal Rising said its aim was to stop horses from potentially dying in the races.
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