Motorists in Warwickshire are being warned that planned closures of parts of the M42 will continue over upcoming weekends while High Speed Two (HS2) contractors complete major beam-lifting operations and work on the Water Orton viaduct.
When and where the closures will run
The restrictions are scheduled to begin each weekend at 21:00 BST on Friday and remain in force until 05:00 on Monday. They affect both northbound and southbound carriageways on stretches of the M42, as well as a number of link roads to the M6 and the M6 Toll.
Specifically, the closures cover:
- Northbound: M42 between Junction 6 and Junction 9
- Southbound: M42 between Junction 7A and Junction 6
- M6 Junction 4a southbound link to the M42 (both directions)
- M6 northbound Junction 3a link to the M6 Toll T1 and M6 Toll southbound from T2
What work is being done
The closures are needed to allow the installation of a series of precast concrete beams that will form a twin-box roof deck over the motorway. Once complete, the structure will carry the HS2 line between Birmingham and London.
In total, 175 beams are due to be installed. Each beam can weigh up to 92 tonnes, and lifts are being undertaken using a 300-tonne crane. The work is being staged over successive weekends to manage safety and traffic disruption while the heavy elements are craned into place.
"This work is being carried out in stages and will be completed in 2026."
Practical impact and advice for drivers
Road users should expect sustained overnight and weekend disruption on the affected routes while these operations continue. Those planning journeys through Warwickshire at weekends should allow extra time or seek alternative routes.
- Check local traffic updates and diversion signage before travelling.
- Consider using alternative routes or public transport where possible.
- Plan for delays if travelling between Birmingham and Coventry or using the M6/M6 Toll interchanges.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Start of closures | 21:00 BST on Fridays |
| End of closures | 05:00 BST on Mondays |
| Beams to install | 175 beams, up to 92 tonnes each |
| Crane capacity | 300 tonnes |
The ongoing operations form part of the major engineering works linked to the HS2 route through the West Midlands. While the closures are designed to keep the most disruptive activity out of peak weekday hours, the scale of the lifts and the safety requirements mean weekend and overnight shutdowns are required.
Drivers are advised to follow official diversion routes and check updates from National Highways and local transport authorities for real-time information.
