Major HS2 motorway works planned across the West Midlands in 2026 – Key information

HS2 is preparing to deliver its largest programme of motorway works to date, with a series of major engineering operations taking place over the M42 and M6 between June and November 2026.

The programme will see three significant railway structures installed over key sections of the motorway network in the West Midlands as construction of Britain’s new high-speed railway continues.

HS2 and its construction partner, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), have worked closely with National Highways, Birmingham Airport and the NEC Group to carefully coordinate the programme and reduce disruption for road users.

Originally expected to require nine motorway closures, extensive planning and engineering innovation has reduced the number of weekend closures to six.

To minimise impacts on commuters and businesses:

• Closures will take place overnight and at weekends only
• Most works will begin at 9pm on Friday evenings
• Motorways are scheduled to reopen by 5am on Monday mornings
• Approved diversion routes will be clearly signposted

M42 twin-box structure

The first major operation begins on Friday 26 June 2026 with installation works for the M42 twin-box structure.

Once complete, the 300-metre-long structure will allow trains to travel above the motorway while vehicles continue through the box below.

Engineers will install 175 individual beams weighing between 56 and 92 tonnes across four weekend closures.

The structure has been designed using modular construction techniques, allowing much of the work to be completed without closing the motorway.

Water Orton viaduct installation

In nearby Water Orton, engineers are preparing to extend two viaducts that will carry high-speed trains towards Birmingham Curzon Street and the Washwood Heath rolling stock depot.

Rather than building the final sections using traditional cantilever methods, the remaining viaduct spans will be assembled beside the motorway and moved into place using self-propelled modular transporters.

This innovative approach significantly reduces installation time and minimises disruption for motorists.

Works are scheduled to begin on Friday 24 July 2026.

M6 South Viaduct West

The final major operation involves installation of the M6 South Viaduct West near Chelmsley Wood.

Using a fully restrained deck-slide process, engineers will move the viaduct into position while keeping traffic moving during key phases of the operation.

Only one weekend closure is currently required for these works, beginning on Friday 21 August 2026.

The current programme of weekend closures is scheduled as follows:

All dates remain subject to consent and operational requirements.

In the coming weeks, HS2 and BBV will host community information events alongside National Highways to help residents, businesses and commuters prepare for the planned works.

Find out more about our events.

Plan ahead before you travel

Motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys and consider alternative routes where possible during closure weekends.

For real-time updates on roadworks and closures, including HS2 activities on public highways, visit one.network.