Major M73 Motorway Reopens After Multi-Vehicle Collision
Glasgow, 16 March 2026 – A significant stretch of the M73 motorway has reopened following a major collision involving 15 vehicles late last night. Emergency services, including three fire appliances and a heavy rescue unit from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, were called to the scene northbound between junctions 2 (Gartcosh) and 3 (Mollinsburn) shortly before midnight on Sunday. The road was closed for several hours to allow emergency crews to deal with the incident, reopening just before 4am on Monday. Early reports indicate five people were taken to hospital for treatment, with three others receiving care at the scene.
Incident Details and Response
The collision caused significant disruption on a key route forming part of Glasgow’s eastern bypass. The M73 is a critical link between the M74, M8, and M80 motorways, and the overnight closure between J2 and J3 affected northbound traffic seeking to connect to the M80 towards Stirling or the M8 towards Edinburgh. Traffic Scotland and local news outlets provided live updates throughout the incident, warning motorists of the closure and subsequent congestion on alternative routes during the early Monday morning rush hour.
Key Facts: The M73 Motorway
The M73 is a short but vital urban motorway in Scotland’s central belt. Below are its key characteristics based on available infrastructure data.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 7 miles (11 km) |
| Primary Function | Connects the M74 motorway with the M80 motorway, providing an eastern bypass for Glasgow. |
| Notable Junctions | J1 (Maryville, M74), J2 (Gartcosh, links to M8 via Baillieston Interchange), J3 (Mollinsburn, M80). Junctions are numbered south to north. |
| Lane Configuration | Dual three-lane (D3M) between junctions 1 and 2; dual two-lane between junctions 2 and 3. |
| Ongoing Projects | Part of the wider M8/M73/M74 Motorway Improvements programme managed by Transport Scotland, which has included new underpasses, bridges, and junction realignments. |
Context and Public Debate
The incident occurs amidst ongoing public discussion about the future of Glasgow’s motorway network. A recent campaign proposing the removal of the urban section of the M8 motorway has sparked debate online, with some highlighting the M73’s role in carrying substantial traffic volumes—reportedly between 100,000 and 150,000 vehicles per day near its interchange with the M8. The M8/M73/M74 improvement projects, which include upgrades at key junctions like Raith, aim to enhance capacity and safety on these heavily used corridors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the M73 motorway?
The M73 is a roughly 7-mile-long motorway in North Lanarkshire, Scotland. It primarily serves as a connector road, linking the M74 motorway to the south with the M80 motorway to the north, while also providing a link to the M8. It acts as an eastern bypass for Glasgow.
Where did the crash happen?
The multi-vehicle collision occurred on the northbound carriageway of the M73, between junction 2 (Gartcosh) and junction 3 (Mollinsburn). This section was closed overnight for emergency service response and recovery operations.
Are there any long-term upgrades planned for the M73?
Yes. The M73 is included in the wider M8/M73/M74 Motorway Improvements programme led by Transport Scotland. This multifaceted project has involved significant engineering works, including the construction of new underpasses, bridges, and improved cycling and pedestrian facilities at major interchanges to increase capacity and safety.