Holidaymakers travelling to Birmingham Airport are being warned of potential delays due to the closure of a key bridge. The closure, which began on Monday, 20 February 2023, is part of the Midlands Metro extension project and is expected to last until 2025.
Bridge Closure Details
The bridge in question is the A45 Coventry Road bridge over the River Blythe, near the airport. The closure is necessary to allow for the construction of a new tram line that will connect Birmingham city centre to the airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC). The bridge will be closed to all traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists, for the duration of the works.
According to Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), the closure is expected to cause significant disruption to traffic in the area, particularly during peak travel times. Drivers are advised to use alternative routes, such as the M42 or the A452, and to allow extra time for their journeys.
Impact on Holidaymakers
The closure is particularly concerning for holidaymakers who are due to fly from Birmingham Airport. With the bridge being a key access route, many travellers may face delays getting to the airport. Airport officials have advised passengers to plan their journeys carefully and to consider using public transport, such as trains or the existing Metro service.
Birmingham Airport's operations director, Tom Denton, said: "We are working closely with TfWM to ensure that passengers are kept informed of any disruption. We advise all passengers to allow extra time for their journeys and to check the latest travel updates before setting off."
Alternative Routes and Travel Advice
TfWM has published a list of alternative routes for drivers. These include using the M42 junction 5 or 6, or the A452 Chester Road. For those using public transport, the West Midlands Railway and the existing Metro line provide direct services to the airport. The airport also offers a shuttle bus service from Birmingham International railway station.
Passengers are also reminded that the airport's car parks are operating as normal, but they should expect longer journey times to reach them. TfWM has also set up a dedicated webpage with live traffic updates and travel advice for the duration of the closure.
Long-Term Benefits
While the closure is causing short-term inconvenience, the long-term benefits of the Metro extension are significant. The new tram line will provide a fast, reliable, and sustainable transport link between Birmingham city centre, the airport, and the NEC. It is expected to reduce car journeys and improve air quality in the region.
The project, which is part of the wider Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games legacy, is also expected to create jobs and boost the local economy. The Metro extension is scheduled to open in 2025, providing a much-needed transport link for residents and visitors alike.
