Overview
- National Highways closed the northern section of the M42 roundabout at Junction 6 on Monday after routine inspections revealed concrete deterioration and corrosion of the steel reinforcement.
- Earlier on Monday one lane was restricted and a 7.5-tonne weight limit was imposed, but National Highways reported repeated breaches of that limit which led to the full closure for safety.
- Engineers and external structural consultants are carrying out detailed surveys and daily monitoring to assess the extent of damage and to decide repair options, with no reopening date set.
- The closure blocks a key access route to Birmingham Airport, the National Exhibition Centre and nearby business parks, and drivers are being urged to expect delays and follow signed diversions rather than relying on sat-navs.
- The bridge opened in 1976 and the case highlights pressures on ageing motorway structures and the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges inspection cycle that governs routine checks and principal surveys.