A car fire on the A38 Aston Expressway sparked major delays for Birmingham drivers on Thursday afternoon. A BMW burst into flames between Park Circus and the M6 at Spaghetti Junction, with passers-by capturing the dramatic scene on camera.
Fire Blocks Key Route
The fire erupted shortly after midday on 30 July, engulfing the vehicle and sending thick smoke across the outbound carriageway. Traffic data provider Inrix reported: "One lane closed and busy but moving due to emergency repairs and earlier vehicle fire on A38(M) Aston Expressway outbound from B4132 Waterlinks Boulevard (Park Circus) to M6 J6 (Spaghetti Junction)." Drivers were warned to allow extra time for journeys.
Traffic Stopped for 25 Minutes
West Midlands Roads posted on X: "A38(M) Aston Expressway between Park Circus and #M6 #Birmingham. Vehicle fire and smoke across the road. The fire is outbound. Expect delays both ways." The post later updated: "Traffic is now able to pass the incident outbound, having been stopped for around 25 minutes. Congestion has reached the city centre tunnels. Two lanes open each way. Allow extra time."
Emergency Response
West Midlands Fire Service was called to the scene, but no further details on injuries or cause have been released. BirminghamLive has requested a statement. The fire caused significant disruption on one of Birmingham's busiest roads during the afternoon peak.
Impact on Commuters
Motorists heading out of the city faced delays stretching back into the tunnels beneath the city centre. Inrix advised that traffic remained busy but moving after the lane reopened. The incident highlights the vulnerability of key routes like the Aston Expressway to sudden disruptions, with knock-on effects for the wider road network.
