Birmingham Bus Routes Face 18-Month Disruption Due to HS2 Saltley Viaduct Works
A significant number of National Express West Midlands bus routes in Birmingham will be impacted starting next month as a result of ongoing HS2 construction activities. The disruption is centered around the Saltley Viaduct, where essential works are necessary to accommodate the future high-speed rail line.
From May 10, 2026, passengers can expect changes to several key bus services, with the alterations potentially lasting for up to 18 months. This extended period is due to the closure of the current viaduct, which is being replaced because it does not meet the height requirements for HS2 trains to pass underneath.
Specific Route Changes and Diversions
The first services to be affected are the 8A and 8C routes. While there will be no change to the frequency of these buses, their paths will be diverted. The 8C service traveling towards Aston will take a new route: it will divert from Adderley Road, continue along Washwood Heath Road, turn left onto Aston Church Road, left again onto Heartlands Parkway, and then rejoin its normal route after the junction with Saltley Viaduct.
The 8A service to Bordesley Green will follow the reverse of this diversion. Additionally, the 14 service heading towards Birmingham will divert from Alum Rock Road, left onto Adderley Road, right onto Duddeston Mill Road, and rejoin its normal route after the junction with Devon Street. During this time, bus stops on Devon Street, Alderflat Place, and Mainstream Way will not be served.
The 14 service towards Chelmsley Wood will follow the reverse of the above route, with all bus stops on the diversion path being served. Finally, services 94 and 95 will also be impacted. Routes towards Birmingham will divert from Washwood Heath Road, right onto Aston Church Road, left onto Heartlands Parkway, and rejoin the normal line after the Saltley Viaduct junction.
Passenger Advice and Alternative Travel Options
For services heading towards Chelmsley Wood, buses will follow the reverse of this diversion. Passengers are strongly encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, as travel times may be longer due to these changes. National Express West Midlands has advised that customers wishing to travel to or from Saltley Gate will need to switch to services 8A and 8C at either Washwood Heath Road or Nechells Parkway.
The construction of the new Saltley Viaduct is a critical component of Birmingham's future transport infrastructure, designed to support the integration of HS2 and enhance regional connectivity. However, the temporary closures and diversions are expected to cause inconvenience for daily commuters and residents in the affected areas.
Travelers should stay updated with the latest information from National Express West Midlands to navigate the changes effectively over the coming months.
