Drivers are being warned of six weekend motorway closures on the M42 and M6 as HS2 works intensify, with five dates already confirmed and a sixth to be announced. The closures will affect routes to Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).
HS2 Works Shift Up a Gear This Summer
The project is set to accelerate this summer with the installation of crossings over the M6 and M42. A twin box structure will be built above both carriageways of the M42 near Birmingham Business Park, close to Junction 7. This will allow the railway to be constructed overhead. Additionally, two single-track viaducts will be extended over the M42/M6 Toll near Water Orton, and a twin-track viaduct will be installed over the M6 near Chelmsley Wood.
Closure Timings and Dates
Junction closures will take place from 9pm on Fridays until 5am on Mondays. The first closure is scheduled for the weekend of June 26, involving the installation of the roof deck for the twin box on the M42. This 300-metre-long structure will enable the high-speed line to be built over the motorway. Once complete, vehicles will drive through the box while trains travel above.
The roof deck will be constructed over four weekend closures, requiring 175 individual beams weighing between 56 and 92 tonnes each. These beams, manufactured off-site in Leicestershire, will be lifted into place using a 300-tonne crawler crane.
Water Orton Viaduct Extensions
Simultaneously, engineers in Water Orton will extend two single-track viaducts that will carry high-speed trains into Birmingham Curzon Street and the Washwood Heath rolling stock depot. The existing 1,200-metre viaducts will be extended by 135 metres using a different construction technique. Prefabricated sections will be moved into position using self-propelled modular transporters and locked into place above the piers. This work will begin on July 24 and continue over the weekend of August 14.
M6 South Viaduct West Installation
The final major challenge is the installation of the M6 South Viaduct West, which requires a single weekend closure starting at 9pm on August 21. A final closure in October or November (date to be confirmed) will involve parapets installation for the Water Orton viaducts.
Community Engagement and Diversions
HS2 Ltd has worked with Birmingham Airport and the NEC Group to plan the works, minimising disruption. Community events will be held to inform residents and businesses about closures and diversion routes. Ian Doust of National Highways advised road users to allow extra time and consider alternative routes.
Confirmed Closure Dates
- June 26-29: First beams for M42 twin box
- July 24-27: Water Orton viaducts and M42 beams
- August 14-17: Continued Water Orton and M42 works
- August 21-24: M6 South Viaduct West deck slide
- September 18-21: Final Water Orton and M42 beam installation
- October/November (TBC): Parapets for Water Orton viaducts
HS2 Ltd emphasised safety as the top priority, necessitating traffic diversions during these vital works. The project continues to progress along the 140-mile route between London and Birmingham, with chief executive Mark Wild leading a comprehensive reset.
