Located near Birmingham city centre, the viaduct will allow vehicles and pedestrians to travel over the new rail line
The HS2 Saltley Viaduct will span 183 metres over what is currently a section of the B4114, which will be closed to vehicles and pedestrians from 10 May as works progress.
When completed, a new structure will be opened to allow travel over HS2’s rails.
The build will last over a year
Up to 18 months is expected to undertake the operation as it is taken in stages. The viaduct will span the Birmingham and Derby rail line, the Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal, and the River Rea, and so requires a precise demolition and construction programme in order to minimise the effects on the surround areas.
The Saltley Viaduct is the second major road bridge to be reconstructed in the area, following the reopening of the Aston Church Road overbridge earlier this year. This bridge will now serve as the diversion for vehicles using the Saltley Viaduct.
Victoria Roberts, HS2’s senior engagement and interface lead for the West Midlands, said: “We thank local communities for their patience ahead of this next stage of construction works and ask people to familiarise themselves with the approved diversion routes that will be put in place.
“As some bus services will be rerouted, we’ve worked closely with Transport for West Midlands to ensure additional temporary stops and extra services will be put in place.
“If you live or work in the area, please check before you travel and allow extra time for your journey.”
The planning is in the final stages now
Utilities located beneath the Saltley Viaduct have already been rerouted in preparation for demolition and works. The first phase will see changes to rail services between Birmingham and Derby for the two weekends between 6 and 14 June. This will be due to the old Aston Church Road overbridge and a section of the Saltley Viaduct above the line being demolished.
Then the final sections of the viaduct will be demolished, closing the canal from 14 July to 17 August.
Then the new bridge’s superstructure will be installed in sections, some being built on-site and then driven into position, while cranes will lift the steelwork to complete the rest in other sections.
Dan Binns, senior project manager for Balfour Beatty VINCI, said: “We’re preparing to demolish two major bridges, including the existing Saltley Viaduct and install a new, larger structure in its place. Delivering this construction programme in such a busy and confined space is a huge challenge, which has required a great deal of planning.
“We’re incredibly grateful to those affected for their continued patience and understanding, while we deliver these essential works.”
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