HS2 works and huge bridge install to force M42 closures

A series of closures are planned on the M42 near Coventry [1] to enable upgrades, HS2 work and the installation of a huge new motorway bridge. Junction 6 of the motorway, where it meets the A45 from Coventry, is undergoing a major facelift to bring it up to speed with modern demands of travel by road, rail and air. National Highways say the works will ‘enable better movement of traffic on and off the A45’, supporting access to Birmingham International Airport and train station as well as preparing capacity for the new HS2 (Birmingham Interchange) station nearby.

The project also includes creating a new junction (5a) on the M42 and the build of a dual carriageway between this new junction and Clock Interchange. The new Solihull [3] Road bridge was lifted into position October 2022 and is expected to open by the end of July 2023. Before it can be opened, National Highways need to demolish the existing bridge to build slip roads for the new junction.

To complete this work safely, the M42 will be closed in both directions between junctions 5 and 6 from 10pm on Friday, May 5, to 5am on Monday, May 8. Engineers will also be carrying out work to remove gantries along the carriageway and prepare for the installation of new gantries. While the majority of this work can be carried out with narrow lanes in place, some overnight closures will be required between 10pm and 5am on the following dates:

April 17 – M42 southbound closed from J5 to J6 April 18 – M42 northbound closed from J5 to J6 April 24 – M42 closed in both directions from J5 to J6

April 25 – M42 closed in both directions from J5 to J6 (northbound closed from 10pm-5am, southbound closed from 12am-5am) April 26 to 28 – M42 closed in both directions from J5 to J6

This diversion route will be in place when the M42 is closed at and around Junction 6 (Image: National Highways)

When the roads are closed, a clearly-signed diversion route will be in force. This has been agreed with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council as the most suitable route for both the amount and type of traffic that will be diverted.

“We expect these closures to cause delays for motorists travelling along the M42,” a National Highways spokesperson said. “Please plan ahead and allow additional time for your journeys, considering alternative routes where possible. “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience you may experience during the upcoming roadworks. The whole team will make every effort to manage noise levels carefully and minimise disruption to the local area.”

References

^ Coventry (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
^ Children seen playing at Coventry working men’s club just before arson attack (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
^ Solihull (www.coventrytelegraph.net)
^ daily newsletter (data.reachplc.com)
^ Coventry (www.coventrytelegraph.net)