Birmingham Viaduct Closes 18 Months for HS2
Birmingham's Saltley Viaduct closes May 10 for 18-month HS2 reconstruction project
Birmingham Viaduct Closes May 10 for 18 Months
Birmingham's Saltley Viaduct will close to all traffic and pedestrians starting Sunday, May 10, 2026, for up to 18 months of demolition and reconstruction work. The 183-metre structure spanning the B4114 will be replaced to accommodate HS2 trains running below, transit officials said. Multiple bus routes across Birmingham will be rerouted during the closure, and rail services between Birmingham and Derby will face disruptions on specific weekends in June.
HS2 Project Drives Major Infrastructure Upgrade
The closure is part of a four-stage scheme to replace the aging viaduct with a modern structure designed to support high-speed rail operations, according to Transport for West Midlands. The viaduct spans the Birmingham and Derby rail line, the Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal, and the River Rea, making it a critical crossing point for multiple transportation modes. The new structure will be two metres higher and four and a half metres wider than the current bridge, providing extra space for cyclists and pedestrians. Transport for West Midlands has worked with HS2 to coordinate the complex project and minimize disruption to the region's transportation network.
Bus Routes Rerouted, Canal Closures Planned
Several bus routes will be rerouted during the 18-month construction period, though specific route numbers weren't detailed in available information. Transport for West Midlands confirmed that additional temporary bus stops and extra services will be in place to accommodate affected riders. The Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal will close to narrowboats and pedestrians from July 14 to August 17, with a diversion route available via the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal using Aston Locks. Rail services between Birmingham and Derby will face disruptions on specific weekends in June, though exact dates for those service changes weren't provided.
Work Begins May 10 in Four-Stage Process
The closure takes effect Sunday, May 10, 2026, marking the start of demolition work on the existing structure. Officials said the work will be conducted in four stages over the 18-month timeline, though specific milestones for each phase weren't available. The phased approach is designed to manage the complex demolition and reconstruction while the viaduct crosses active rail lines, a canal, and a river. Construction is expected to continue through late 2027.
Riders Urged to Plan Ahead During Construction
Passengers and residents are advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time for travel during the construction period. The extended closure will affect daily commutes for drivers, bus riders, cyclists, and pedestrians who regularly use the B4114 crossing. Transit officials said they'll work to minimize disruptions, but significant delays are expected throughout the project. Moovit provides real-time updates for Birmingham bus routes and can help riders navigate service changes during the viaduct reconstruction.
