HS2 engineers are preparing to deliver two major construction programmes in tandem over the M42 between Solihull and Water Orton, prompting warnings of potential disruption for drivers across Birmingham. To minimise the impact on motorists, the Water Orton viaducts and the twin box structure will be extended during three separate weekend closures in July, August, and September 2026.
Simultaneous Construction to Reduce Long-Term Disruption
The coordinated approach means engineers will work on both structures at the same time, reducing the need for repeated weekend closures later. Each closure will have different effects on motorists depending on which carriageway is affected, with diversion routes varying accordingly.
July Weekend Closure Details
The first closure in July will affect the M42 from junction 6 to 9 northbound, and junction 7a to 6 southbound. This closure will run from 9pm on Friday, 24th July until 5am on Monday, 27th July 2026. The M6 junction 4a southbound link to the M42 in both directions will also be closed during this period.
To allow construction materials to be safely brought into the works area, the M6toll will be closed southbound at junction T2 from 10pm on Friday, 24th July until midday on Saturday, 25th July 2026. Drivers affected will need to exit the M6toll at junction T2 and follow a diversion route via the A446 southbound to M6 junction 4, then onto the M6 southbound.
Additional M6toll Closures
Furthermore, the M6toll northbound connecting road between M6 junction 3a and T1 will be closed from 9pm on Friday, 24th July until 5am on Monday, 27th July 2026. A diversion route will be in place via M6 junction 4, then A446 northbound to junction T1 on the M6toll. Access will also be restricted from the M42 northbound. Outside of these works, the M6toll will remain fully open as normal.
Ongoing Works on M6 South Viaduct
In addition to the twin box and Water Orton viaduct works, HS2 continues to push its M6 South Viaduct into position. These works have been carefully scheduled to avoid overlapping with the M42 weekend closures, further reducing disruption for motorists.
Motorist Advice and Diversions
Motorists are strongly advised to plan ahead for the upcoming closures and follow the approved diversion routes. Relying on sat navs may divert drivers onto different routes, potentially causing congestion on local roads. Checking travel conditions before setting off is recommended to ensure smoother journeys.
National Highways Comments
Ian Doust, National Highways’ Head of Network Planning and Development, said: "The scale of what's being delivered in this area by HS2 and their partners is remarkable, and the careful planning with National Highways means we can keep disruption to a minimum while this major infrastructure takes shape.
"Working on the Water Orton viaducts and the twin box simultaneously during these weekend closures is a deliberate approach to protect road users from repeated disruption over a longer period. We'd ask drivers to plan ahead for the upcoming closures, follow the approved diversion routes rather than relying on sat nav, and allow extra time for their journeys. Checking conditions before setting off will make a real difference."
Further weekend closures are expected in August and September, with specific details to be announced closer to the dates. HS2 and National Highways are working together to provide timely updates to the public, ensuring that drivers have the information they need to navigate the affected areas.
