A series of events where Birmingham residents, businesses and visitors can get information and advice on alternative travel options during the second phase of the refurbishment of the A38 tunnels have been announced.
The St Chad’s and Queensway tunnels will be completely closed to all traffic from 10pm on Friday 18 July until 6am on Monday 1 September. The complete closure will be preceded by two weeks of overnight closures, from 10pm to 6am, and followed by up to four weeks of similar overnight closures. 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.
Birmingham City Council and Highways partner Amey will be on hand 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:
• Tuesday 17th June –Victoria Square
• Thursday 19th June – Birmingham Children’s Hospital
• Friday 20th June – Brindleyplace
• Tuesday 24th June – Cathedral Square Colmore Row
• Wednesday 2nd July – Centenary Square
• Monday 14th July – Victoria Square
Last year’s closures saw over 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.”
More information on this year’s closures and advice for visitors to the city can be found at www.brumtunnels.co.uk.