Emergency Bridge Closure Shuts Key M42 Junction as Safety

National Highways closes part of Junction 6 after structural deterioration identified during inspections.

A key bridge at one of the Midlands' busiest motorway junctions has been closed indefinitely after engineers identified structural deterioration that has raised significant safety concerns.

National Highways has shut the northern bridge on the M42 Junction 6 roundabout, with the closure taking effect from 4pm on 13 July, following detailed inspections and ongoing structural assessments.

The move is expected to affect traffic travelling to Birmingham Airport, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and surrounding parts of the strategic road network.

Inspections Reveal Structural Issues

The closure follows routine bridge inspections which identified deterioration within the structure, including damage to the concrete and corrosion affecting the steel reinforcement embedded inside the bridge.

Initially, engineers introduced precautionary measures by closing one lane before imposing a 7.5-tonne weight restriction to reduce loading on the structure while further investigations took place.

However, National Highways says repeated breaches of the weight limit, combined with the findings of more extensive surveys and structural monitoring, have led engineers to conclude that a full closure is now necessary.

Safety Takes Priority

National Highways said the decision had been taken to protect road users while engineers continue to assess the condition of the bridge.

A spokesperson for the organisation said:

"Safety has to be our priority, which is why we have taken the decision to close the structure now.

"This is a developing situation and we are working closely with structural engineering specialists and consultants to fully assess the inspection results and determine the most appropriate course of action."

No timescale has yet been provided for reopening the bridge.

Motorists Warned to Expect Delays

The closure is likely to increase congestion around M42 Junction 6, a critical interchange serving Birmingham Airport, the NEC and nearby business parks.

Drivers are being urged to allow additional time for journeys and consider alternative routes where possible while engineers continue their investigations.

Further traffic management measures and diversion arrangements may be introduced as the situation develops.

Latest in a Series of Bridge Maintenance Challenges

The emergency closure highlights the increasing pressure facing infrastructure owners responsible for maintaining ageing bridges across England's strategic road network.

Many structures built several decades ago are now requiring significant maintenance as prolonged exposure to traffic loading, water ingress and de-icing salts accelerates the deterioration of reinforced concrete and steel components.

National Highways says it will provide further updates once engineers have completed their assessment and determined the next steps for the bridge at M42 Junction 6.