Commuters in Birmingham are facing significant disruption this morning after the Aston Expressway was forced to close in both directions. The major route, the A38(M), has been shut to all traffic due to reported problems with its overhead gantry system.
Closure Details and Diversion Routes
The closure, which came into effect on Monday, 19 January 2026, means no vehicles can access the expressway from key junctions including Spaghetti Junction (Gravelly Hill) and Dartmouth Circus. Authorities have implemented diversions, with motorists being directed to use Lichfield Road as an alternative route.
Official sources confirmed the incident. West Midlands Roads posted an alert on social media platform X, stating: "Expressway is being closed due to overhead gantry problems. Traffic is unable to access the Expressway from Spaghetti Junction / Gravelly Hill and Dartmouth Circus. Expect delays."
Compounding Congestion in the Area
The expressway closure is not the only travel headache for drivers in the area. To compound the problems, Electric Avenue, which runs underneath the Aston Expressway, is also closed. This separate closure is scheduled to remain in effect until Sunday, 25 January 2026.
As a direct result of these dual closures, heavy congestion has been reported on surrounding roads. Key arteries such as Witton Road and Brookvale Road are experiencing severe delays as traffic seeks alternative paths. Transport officials are urging all drivers to leave extra time for their journeys and to follow the signed diversion routes.
Advice for Motorists and Ongoing Updates
With the situation causing widespread disruption across north Birmingham, the advice for motorists is clear:
- Avoid the area if possible.
- Plan for considerably longer journey times.
- Follow official diversion signs and traffic updates.
The closure of such a critical transport link is expected to cause delays throughout the day. Authorities have not yet provided an estimated time for when the Aston Expressway will reopen. This remains a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from highways teams and emergency services.
