Major alterations are set to impact bus services in Birmingham due to ongoing HS2 construction. Starting May 10, the National Express West Midlands will modify several routes while work is conducted on the Saltley Viaduct. The current structure lacks sufficient height for HS2 operations, necessitating the construction of a new viaduct.
Birmingham Bus Routes Affected by 18-Month HS2 Construction
These changes are forecasted to disrupt service for up to 18 months as the viaduct is closed. Passengers are urged to plan their trips ahead of time, as travel times may increase significantly.
Routes Impacted
- Routes 8A and 8C: The service towards Aston will divert from Adderley Road to Washwood Heath Road. It will then turn left onto Aston Church Road, left onto Heartlands Parkway, and finally rejoin the line after the Saltley Viaduct junction. The 8A service to Bordesley Green will reverse this route.
- Route 14: For buses heading towards Birmingham, diversions will take place from Alum Rock Road. Buses will turn left onto Adderley Road, then right onto Duddeston Mill Road, resuming normal service after the Devon Street junction. Both Devon Street and surrounding areas will not be serviced during the closure. The Chelmsley Wood route will follow the same diversion plan in reverse.
- Routes 94 and 95: Services towards Birmingham will redirect from Washwood Heath Road, turning right onto Aston Church Road and left onto Heartlands Parkway before resuming the main route after Saltley Viaduct. Routes traveling to Chelmsley Wood will follow the reverse route.
Passengers needing to access Saltley Gate should switch to services 8A or 8C at either Washwood Heath Road or Nechells Parkway. With these changes, commuters are reminded to allow for additional travel time when using affected Birmingham bus routes.
