Drivers warned of long-term disruption as new Midland Metro works start
Work on the expansion of the Midland Metro in Birmingham city centre moves on to its next stage on Monday (January 29) with drivers warned to expect disruption as major routes are closed.
As part of the ongoing construction of the Westside tram extension, traffic restrictions will mean that Broad Street will only be accessible to buses, black cabs and service vehicles between Granville Street and Paradise Circus Queensway.
The Midland Metro Alliance said this would be a long-term restriction while the tram extension is completed.
The extension will eventually allow trams to run from Stephenson Street, outside New Street Station, to Centenary Square, with a stop outside the new HSBC UK bank building at Arena Central.
During the work, Bridge Street will be closed at the junction of Broad Street and Centenary Square, with access maintained for pedestrians and cyclists only.
Three pick-up points for taxis and private vehicles will be installed on Cambridge Street, Bridge Street and Bishopsgate Street.
From Monday – and running for approximately four weeks – there will be temporary traffic signals with shuttle lane running on the approach from Five Ways to Broad Street. Vehicles will only be able to turn left from Bishopsgate Street and Sheepcote Street onto Broad Street, although this restriction will be removed prior to the IAAF World Indoor Athletics event, which takes place at Arena Birmingham at the beginning of March.
The MMA said pedestrian and cycle routes in the area would be maintained and traffic marshals would be on-hand to identify which routes to follow.
Construction on this new extension, which is around 1.25 miles in length, started in summer 2017 and will be delivered in two phases. Trams are expected to operate to Centenary Square in 2019 and to Edgbaston in 2021.
Steve Grimes, Project Director for the Birmingham Westside Extension for the Midland Metro Alliance, said: “We understand that nobody likes disruption to their regular travel plans but we are working with the Birmingham City Council, Westside Business Improvement District and Transport for West Midlands to minimise our impact wherever possible. Our Engagement Team will continue to work with local businesses and residents to keep them up-to-date with our plans.”
Cllr Stewart Stacey, Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Roads, said: “Whilst short-term disruption is unavoidable, the tram extension through Centenary Square to Edgbaston is crucial for the city’s continued development and regeneration.”
Further details on the work are available by visiting www.metroalliance.co.uk
