West Midlands motorists have been warned about 'hugely disruptive' closures on the M42 and M6 this summer due to HS2 construction works. Warwickshire County Council Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Environment Steve Smith stated that the high-speed rail project is set to reach its 'peak' this summer, with a series of motorway closures to be announced after May's local elections.
HS2 Construction at Peak Level
In an update to elected officials at this week's communities overview and scrutiny committee, Smith explained: 'I think it is safe to say we are at a peak. When you are visiting in and around Warwickshire or just beyond our boundaries you can see just how much is happening.' He added that the number of road closures is increasing as infrastructure built offline is connected to the existing road network, including bridges and underpasses.
Recent and Upcoming Closures
A major closure of the A446 near Coleshill and Water Orton recently occurred to move viaducts over the road. Smith noted that diversions often cause contention as not all motorists follow them, leading to local noise from communities and residents. He confirmed that over the summer, there will be even more closures, including several weekend closures on the M42 and M6. These will be communicated once the election period ends, with more details expected in early May.
Smith described the works as 'hugely disruptive' between junctions six and nine of the M42, a very busy area, requiring local diversions. He stated that the council will be 'hugely busy over the summer as a lot of these new assets come online throughout 2026.'
