HS2 has reached a major milestone on the approach to Solihull's Interchange station, with all three viaducts in the borough now structurally complete. The structures span Balsall Common, Marsh Farm and the River Blythe, according to HS2 Ltd.
Doug Barnett, HS2 Ltd’s senior project manager, described the achievement as "fantastic progress" and highlighted the efforts to address community concerns.
Viaducts Complete, Remaining Work Detailed
Barnett said: "Our engineering teams are making fantastic progress on the Interchange Station approach, and it’s a significant achievement that all three viaducts in the Solihull borough are now structurally complete." He added that design and landscaping solutions were of utmost importance to local residents, and the team worked extremely hard to get that right.
The largest of the three, a 1,600 ft span over the River Blythe, was considered sensitive due to its size and proximity to communities. Earlier this week, the final parapets were installed, leaving only acoustic barriers and final waterproofing to be completed.
Separate A38 Slip Road Delay Draws Criticism
However, the positive news is tempered by a separate development on the A38 near Lichfield. The northbound slip road at Streethay was due to reopen in October 2026, but HS2 has now informed MP Dave Robertson that it will remain closed until April 2027.
Robertson, who represents Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages, called the delay "another broken promise." He said: "Another HS2 delay. Another broken promise. The A38 northbound slip road in Streethay was due to reopen in October 2026. After my meeting with the CEO of HS2, the company has now informed [me] it will stay closed until April 2027."
Community Impact and Ongoing Scrutiny
Robertson emphasised the ongoing disruption for residents and businesses: "Our communities have lived with years of disruption and were looking forward to finally seeing the end of these roadworks. This latest delay is completely unacceptable and will continue to impact residents, commuters and businesses who rely on the A38 every day."
He pledged to continue holding HS2 to account, stating: "I will keep holding HS2 to account and fighting for our community." The slip road closure is part of wider roadworks on the A38, which have been in place for an extended period.
While the viaduct completion marks significant engineering progress, the A38 delay highlights ongoing challenges for local communities affected by HS2 construction.
