Traffic Alert: Motorists warned of M6 overnight closure
Drivers using the M6 northbound near Birmingham are being warned of a series of overnight closures to the carriageway to allow for essential repairs.
The section of motorway between Junctions 6 (A38 Aston Expressway/Birmingham city centre) and 8 (the link with the M5) will be closed from 10pm tonight (Thursday) until 6am tomorrow.
Highways England has said that until Tuesday (February 27) there could also be a series of daytime restrictions along the route, as well as during the weekend.
From February 27 to Sunday March 4 only overnight closures will be needed.
The agency said that the condition of the carriageway surface had deteriorated as a result of one of the wettest years on record followed by a winter spell of falling temperatures. This has resulted in water finding its way into the carriageway, freezing and then lifting and breaking up the road surface above it as it thaws.
Temporary repairs have recently been carried out, however, there is now a need for greater intervention to repair the structure.
It has warned the works will mean significant disruption and local routes around the area will be busier than usual.
“We recognise that there is a never a good time to carry out roadworks at such a critical point on our network. Safety is our top priority and we need to carry out these repairs to ensure drivers continue to have safe and reliable journeys along this key strategic route,” said Highways England in a statement.
Diversions will be signposted but drivers have been advised to allow extra time for their journeys.
In addition to the main repairs, Highways England has said that the southbound sliproad at Junction 7 (Great Barr) will be closed from 9pm tonight until 4.30am tomorrow (Friday) to enable bridge inspection work to be completed.
Diversions will be signposted but drivers have been advised to seek alternative routes if they know they will be using the junction.
Owing to the timings of the closure then any delays are expected to be minimal.
