Drivers are facing significant disruption in Birmingham today, with authorities issuing a strong warning to avoid the city centre. The advice comes as a key slip road remains shut and traffic levels are expected to be 'very busy' during peak periods.
Key Road Closure and Travel Advice
The primary cause of the disruption is the closure of the slip road from Navigation Street onto the A38 Suffolk Street Queensway. This closure is expected to remain in effect until further notice, causing a major bottleneck for vehicles trying to access the city core.
In response, West Midlands Roads, part of Transport for West Midlands, has publicly urged commuters and visitors to reconsider their travel plans. The official advice is to 'ditch the car' and use the bus, train, or tram instead.
Compounding Factors and Wider Delays
The traffic situation is further exacerbated by a surge in city centre visitors. A combination of post-Black Friday shopping and trips to the popular Birmingham Christmas Market is drawing large crowds, intensifying congestion on the roads.
The problems are not confined to the city centre. Motorists are also experiencing delays on the region's motorway network. On the M6 northbound, a lane is closed between Junction 3 (Exhall Interchange) and Junction 4 (Coleshill Interchange) due to a broken-down vehicle.
Simultaneously, emergency barrier repairs have led to lane closures in both directions on the M54 between Junction 2 (Coven Heath Interchange) and Junction 3 (Tong Interchange).
What This Means for Your Journey
With multiple pressure points across the road network, journey times are expected to be considerably longer than usual. The collective message from transport officials is clear: for a smoother and less stressful trip into Birmingham, public transport is the most reliable option today.
Commuters are advised to plan ahead, check live travel updates, and allow extra time if driving is unavoidable.
