Great Birmingham Run 2026: Full List of 48 Bus Diversions Announced
Bus passengers across Birmingham are being alerted to significant travel disruptions as the Great Birmingham Run returns on Sunday, May 3, 2026. National Express West Midlands has confirmed that a total of 48 bus routes will be diverted to accommodate the thousands of runners participating in the 10km and half marathon events.
Road Closures and Service Impacts
Multiple roads throughout the city will be closed from the very start of bus services on Sunday morning. While most closures are expected to lift by approximately 4:00 PM, Jennens Road will remain shut until around 6:00 PM. The bus company issued a formal statement detailing the planned disruptions.
"On Sunday 3rd May 2026, from the start of service until approximately 4pm, with Jennens Road remaining closed until approximately 6pm, there will be multiple road closures in Birmingham as the Great Birmingham Run takes place," a spokesperson for National Express West Midlands said.
Complete List of Affected Bus Routes
The following services will operate on diverted routes during the event period:
- Services 1, 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 8A, 8C, 9, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 17A, 23, 24, 35, 45, 47, 50, 60, 61, 63, 66, 80, 82, 87, 94, 95, 97, 97A, 101, 126
- Express services X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X8, X10, X12, X13, X14, X20, X21, X22
Passengers are strongly advised to check for real-time updates and allow extra time for their journeys.
Event Details and Expected Participation
More than 17,000 runners are anticipated to take part in the weekend's festivities. The action kicks off on Saturday, May 2, with the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run events held at Alexander Stadium. The main 10km and half marathon events will follow on Sunday.
The scenic running route will weave through iconic Birmingham districts, offering a dynamic urban experience. Runners will pass through the historic Jewellery Quarter, vibrant Digbeth, and the bustling Grand Central area before heading into south Birmingham. The course provides a striking contrast, moving from the city-centre buzz into the serene green spaces of Cannon Hill Park and Selly Park.
Aston University Hosts Celebration Village
The finish line celebrations will be centered at Aston University, which will host a dedicated "events village." This space will allow runners to refuel, relax, and celebrate their achievements with family and friends in a supportive atmosphere.
Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Aston University, expressed the institution's pride in being chosen as the host. "We are delighted Aston University will host the event village at the end of the Great Birmingham Run, bringing together participants, friends and family to celebrate on our campus," he stated.
He further noted the symbolic timing of the event, coinciding with the university's 60th-anniversary celebrations in 2026. "It is fitting that the University was chosen because 2026 marks our sixtieth anniversary... Having the Great Birmingham Run finish on campus, is another expression of how we have become a focal point for the city and an integral part of Birmingham."
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan their travel carefully for the first weekend in May to navigate around the event-related transport changes smoothly.
