Drivers face traffic delays as ageing M42 bridge set to be demolished over safety fears

Drivers have been warned to expect continued delays after an ageing bridge over the M42 has been earmarked for demolition due to safety concerns.

The 50-year-old Bickenhill Bridge on the northern side of the Junction 6 roundabout was closed by National Highways in July after inspectors found significant damage to the concrete and corrosion in the steel reinforcement.

Following further assessments, engineers concluded the bridge was at risk of further deterioration and that repairing it would not provide a long-term solution.

Instead, National Highways has confirmed the structure will be demolished and replaced with a new bridge built to modern standards.

The demolition is expected to take place during one of the planned M42 closures between Junctions 6 and 9 for HS2 construction work, in an effort to reduce disruption for motorists.

Ian Doust, head of network planning and development at National Highways, said: "Many of the motorways and structures we manage were built over half a century ago and now need renewing or replacing to ensure they remain fit for purpose.

"Safety has to be our priority, which is why we closed the bridge when we saw such a rapid change in the condition of the structure."

He explained that investigations showed that the most effective and efficient solution was to demolish the bridge and re-build it to modern standards to "keep people and goods moving safely and reliably".

Before the decision was made, the agency implemented a 7.5-tonne weight restriction after structural defects were discovered on the bridge.

After inspectors identified further deterioration, National Highways decided to close the bridge completely in July to protect drivers.

Officials are now developing plans to install a temporary bridge at Junction 6 while a permanent replacement is built.

National Highways said more information on the demolition schedule and the next stages of the project will be released as soon as possible.

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The agency said it will continue to work with Birmingham Airport and the NEC to help businesses and visitors prepare for disruption.

Current diversion routes around the bridge closure will remain in place until further notice.

Junction 6 is one of the busiest sections of the M42, providing access to Birmingham Airport, the NEC and nearby business parks.

National Highways said carrying out the demolition during an existing motorway closure for HS2 works will help keep additional disruption to a minimum.

National Highways shared: "To protect the safety of the public and to safeguard the structure, we've closed the bridge and the northern section of the roundabout.

"This closure applies only to traffic using the northern part of the roundabout.

"The bridge remains safe for vehicles travelling underneath on the M42. We're continuing enhanced monitoring to ensure motorway traffic can flow safely beneath the structure."