Major motorway near Birmingham Airport set to shut for HS2 works this weekend

Motorists are set to experience disruption when a major motorway near Birmingham Airport closes for HS2 construction this weekend.

The M42 will be closed between Junctions 6 and 9 for planned HS2 works from 9pm on Friday to 5am on Monday (September 18 to 21.

The closure is expected to cause disruption for commuters and drivers travelling to Birmingham Airport, Birmingham International station or the NEC.

During the pre-planned closure for HS2 building work, National Highways will demolish the Bickenhill Bridge forming part of the northern M42 Junction 6 roundabout.

The organisation said the bridge has suffered “significant structural deterioration” and experts have “concluded that repairing the bridge isn't a viable option”.

See details of roadworks and planning applications on the Public Notices Portal

Diversions will be signposted for affected traffic but motorists have been warned to expect delays. Learn more and see the interactive diversion map here.

In a video posted on social media, David May, head of scheme delivery for National Highways in the Midlands, said: “Doing both piece of work together means we have no extra closures and we will limit the disruption to the members of public.

“If you’re coming to the NEC or the Motorcycle Museum or Birmingham Airport, please plan your journey. We’ll also have extra traffic officer patrols in place throughout the weekend to help keep traffic moving smoothly.”

A spokesperson for National Highways said: “The M42 J6 - J9 will be closed so that HS2 can carry out planned works.

“We're taking the opportunity to demolish Bickenhill Bridge, avoiding extra disruption for road users.”