City council launches information roadshows on A38 tunnel closures

BIRMINGHAM City Council and its highways partner, Amey, are staging a series of roadshows offering businesses, residents and visitors to the city more information about the closure of the A38 tunnels this summer.

The tunnel refurbishment, the second stage of the overall scheme begun last year, takes effect next month and will see the St Chad’s and Queensway tunnels closed off to traffic for a further six weeks.

The roadshows are offering information and advice on alternative travel options during the closure period, which starts on July 18 and runs through until September 1. There will also be a series of overnight closures outside of this period. Beginning on July 4 and running until July 18, the tunnels will be closed between 10pm and 6am. The same restrictions apply between September 1 and 29.

The second phase of the works will complete the upgrade to the tunnels by renewing the ventilation system, installing new security and communications systems, replacing electrical systems and refurbishing pumping stations and plant rooms.

The city council and Amey will have officers at the events, along with representatives from Centro, National Express, Virgin Trains, London Midland and sustainable transport groups promoting walking and cycling initiatives.

Those attending will be able to take advantage of discounted offers on public transport tickets as well as get advice on routes, timetables and ways to avoid the disruption.

The events will be taking place on:

• Friday June 20 – Brindleyplace
• Tuesday June 24 – Cathedral Square Colmore Row
• Wednesday July 2 – Centenary Square
• Monday July 14 – Victoria Square

Last year’s closures saw more than 200,000 additional journeys made by public transport and the team behind the closures are warning people not to be complacent about how they travel this time round.

Eddie Fellows, Highways Network Manager for Amey, said: “It is important to stress that disruption was kept to a minimum last year because so many people heeded the advice to leave the car at home. If we do not get similar numbers of people making the change again this year, motorists may encounter significant delays.

“These information events are an opportunity for us to help people find the best travel option for them during the closures.”

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