National Highways has closed a bridge on the northern section of the M42 roundabout at Junction 6. As part of routine inspections on the bridge, damage to the concrete and some corrosion of the steel reinforcement was discovered.

One lane of the bridge was initially closed and a weight limit later introduced restricting vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.

There have been repeated breaches of the weight limit which was put in place to safeguard the bridge.

Following further, extensive surveys and monitoring of the structure, a decision has now been taken to close the bridge to all traffic. The closure began at 4pm today.

A National Highways spokesperson said:  

“Safety has to be our priority which is why we have taken the decision to close the structure now.

“This is a developing situation and we are working with structural engineering experts and consultants to understand the results of inspections and surveys and consider what our options are.

“We will provide further updates as soon as we are able to do so.” Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys if they have to travel to this area, particularly if heading to Birmingham Airport or the National Exhibition Centre

(Picture: Mapillary)