Birmingham Road in Sutton Coldfield is set to be closed in one direction from Wednesday evening (October 14) for urgent gas main repairs, following a report of a smell of gas near the Bottle of Sack pub. Gas network company Cadent has ordered the emergency works, which will see one lane shut from Manor Hill down to the roundabout by the Bottle of Sack, with a half-mile diversion in place for through traffic.
Emergency works after gas smell reported
The issue came to light after a member of the public reported smelling gas in the area, prompting Cadent to investigate. The company said the road needs to be dug up as the issue requires 'immediate attention to ensure public safety'. A 'no smoking' rule is already in force in the vicinity of the Bottle of Sack pub as a precaution.
This is the latest in a series of gas-related disruptions in Sutton Coldfield, following a long-running problem on the town's High Street that was first reported in February and only recently resolved. Councillor David Pears (Conservative, Sutton Trinity) has previously called for more investment from Cadent in its network.
Diversion route and timing
The lane closure will come into effect at around 7pm on Wednesday, October 14, affecting traffic travelling from Manor Hill towards Brassington Avenue. Through traffic will be diverted from Maney Corner by the Royal Cinema, along Holland Road, then Lower Queen Street and up Queen Street, rejoining the roundabout next to the Bottle of Sack and Nando's before continuing down Brassington Avenue.
Cadent staff will be 'working through the night' to complete the repair as 'quickly as possible', but the company anticipates the road will remain closed one way on Thursday, October 15, potentially causing traffic build-up on surrounding roads. Cadent hopes to have the road 'fully cleared' by Friday, October 16.
Cadent's response and community impact
A Cadent spokeswoman said: "Safety is always our top priority. Following a report of a smell of gas, our engineers need to carry out urgent repairs to the gas network on Birmingham Road." She added: "We understand these works will cause disruption, and we'd like to thank residents and road users for their patience while we complete this essential repair."
The spokeswoman emphasised that teams would be working overnight to minimise impact, stating: "These repairs are vital to keep the area safe and maintain a reliable gas supply for local homes and businesses." Cadent apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked the community for its understanding while the urgent safety works are completed.
