The M6 northbound carriageway has been shut between junctions 5 and 6 near Birmingham due to an off-network fire, with thick smoke blowing across the road and making driving conditions hazardous.
The closure came into effect on Thursday (August 13) shortly before 5.30pm, affecting the stretch between Junction 5 for Castle Vale and Castle Bromwich and Junction 6 – Spaghetti Junction, which serves Erdington and provides the main route from the motorway into Birmingham city centre.
What is an off-network fire?
An off-network fire is one that is not on the motorway itself, but the smoke from it is blowing across the carriageway, reducing visibility and creating dangerous conditions for drivers. National Highways West Midlands confirmed the closure in a statement, saying: “The M6 northbound near Birmingham is closed between J5 and J6 due to an off-network fire. Thick smoke is blowing across the carriageway; closures have been implemented for safety reasons.”
The southbound carriageway remains open, but speed limits have been reduced as a precaution. National Highways added: “Southbound carriageway remains open at this time, however reduced speeds are in place.”
Police and emergency response
West Midlands Police also issued a statement, noting the closure and their involvement: “Note M6 northbound closure below between J5 and J6. We are assisting colleagues with the closure.” The incidents come on one of the hottest days of the year, with fire brigades across the region stretched by multiple callouts.
In addition to the M6 closure, a large fire is causing major issues in the Stourbridge area of the Black Country. Other significant fires have been reported at Tangmere Drive in Castle Vale, Price Avenue in the Mile Oak area of Tamworth, on playing fields in Solihull, and in Kings Norton.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and seek alternative routes, as the closure is expected to cause delays during the evening rush hour.
