Birmingham Tunnels closed again for six weeks

Yes, it’s that time again with the Queensway tunnels that skirt around the city centre of Birmingham to close for 6 weeks over the summer period from 10pm Friday 18th July 2014 until 6am Monday 1st September 2014.

The works are to include renewing the ventilation system, installing new security and communications systems, replacing electrical systems and refurbishing pumping stations and plant rooms. Which is a fancy way of saying they need to close it for a continuous period to get the work done.

These tunnels form part of the A38 – a major artery in and out of the city, connecting the north of the city (via the Aston Expressway – A38M), and the south of the city (the A38). So having a major artery closed like this is going to have a major impact on the ability to get in and out of the city.

Here’s a map of the closures.

Closures this year – Image, Birmingham City Council

So what advice as a local would I give?

• Give up on getting into the city via either end of the A38. Find a diversionary route if you need to get into the city, which brings me onto my second point
• Use the Ring Road. The A4540 is a pain of a road, but if you’re looking for a different point to enter Birmingham City Centre with, this could be the main way in if you’re going by car.
• Use the Bus. Whilst not as developed as Manchester’s bus network or London’s routes, Birmingham has got excellent coverage through the main routes to most part of the city and beyond. National Express West Midlands have special fares going during the roadworks (as well as multiple diversions – check before you travel where you bus will go in and out of the city).
• Use the Train or Metro – Both have substantial park and ride facilities on their routes, allowing you to skip the the nasty traffic and get into the heart of the city. Network West Midlands has great resources for locating park and ride locations
• It isn’t THAT bad. Last year there were threats of gridlock would hit the city, and to be honest – it didn’t, because people changed their habits, and traffic was lighter due to the school holidays.

However, delays are expected at peak periods, so plan your journey in advance if you’re coming to Birmingham.