People travelling in and around the Perry Barr area of Birmingham are being advised to allow more time for journeys as works start on Phase Two of the A34 highways improvement scheme.

Phase Two will run from Friday, 8 January to May 2021 and is likely to cause significant disruption with major works due to take place, including the removal of the flyover, carriageway widening and works to the new bridge at Birchfield Island.

The A34 flyover, next to One Stop Shopping Centre, will be closed from the evening of Friday 8 January and it is anticipated that it will then be removed from 5 to 8 February.

Traffic diversions will be in place from 8 January with diversion routes available. More details and a map can be found at wmnetwork.co.uk/perrybarr

Key travel advice from Friday:

• Plan ahead and leave more time for your journey
• Consider travelling at a different times, where possible avoid travelling at peak times and spread your journey throughout the day
• Consider using another route where possible. Check apps that show traffic levels before leaving
• Consider walking or cycling for shorter journeys, where possible, to reduce congestion on the A34 and local roads. Public transport services are operating but fewer people are able to travel 
• Allow extra time for all bus journeys through this area
• Those using A34 to travel into Birmingham city centre from Walsall or M6 J7 could consider using the M6 Aston Expressway instead

Anne Shaw, director of network resilience at Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) said:  “There will inevitably be some disruption to people’s journeys while work is carried out – and we strongly urge people to plan ahead – perhaps travel at a quieter time, walk or cycle for shorter trips or try an alternative route.

“Through our Regional Transport Coordination Centre, we will be monitoring the network closely, minute by minute, and keeping travellers updated with the latest information and advice to minimise the impact of these works.

“The scheme will create a new road layout to support the wider regeneration of Perry Barr; providing better access to public transport and improving facilities for cycling and walking.”

The works are being carried out by Birmingham City Council to create a new road layout as part of the wider regeneration of the Perry Barr area.

TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), is working with the council to keep local residents, businesses, commuters and visitors informed of live traffic updates, road closures and alternative methods of travel.

Cllr Waseem Zaffar, Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment added: “The commencement of Phase Two of the Perry Barr Highways Improvement Scheme is a significant milestone in the project, and absolutely critical in achieving our aim of Perry Barr being one of the most well-connected areas in Birmingham.

“However, these are major works and, although we are working to keep disruption to a minimum, they will have an impact on people’s travel arrangements. I urge everyone to plan ahead and choose alternative routes and alternative modes of travel where possible.”