Birmingham Bus Routes to Experience Major Changes Due to HS2 Construction for Up to 18 Months

Starting May 10, several Birmingham bus routes operated by National Express will undergo significant changes due to ongoing HS2 construction at Saltley Viaduct. The current viaduct is being replaced because it lacks the necessary clearance for HS2 trains, prompting the construction of a new structure designed to support the area’s future transportation needs.

This major infrastructure project will necessitate the closure of the existing viaduct, leading to potential disruptions on multiple bus services for up to 18 months. Commuters are advised to plan ahead, as journey times may increase during this period.

The first affected routes include the 8A and 8C. Though their frequency remains unchanged, their paths will be altered:

The 8C route heading toward Aston will divert from Adderley Road onto Washwood Heath Road, then turn left onto Aston Church Road, left again onto Heartlands Parkway, before rejoining the usual route past the Saltley Viaduct junction.
The 8A route to Bordesley Green will follow this rally in reverse.

Route 14 will also see adjustments:

Buses traveling toward Birmingham will divert from Alum Rock Road, turn left onto Adderley Road, right onto Duddeston Mill Road, and then rejoin the normal route after Devon Street. During this time, stops at Devon Street, Alderflat Place, and Mainstream Way will be temporarily suspended.
The 14 service heading toward Chelmsley Wood will run the reverse of this diversion, maintaining stops along the alternate pathway.

Services 94 and 95 will experience similar changes:

Routes toward Birmingham will divert via Washwood Heath Road, turn right onto Aston Church Road, then left onto Heartlands Parkway, rejoining the usual route beyond Saltley Viaduct.
For services heading back to Chelmsley Wood, the buses will take this route in reverse.

Passengers traveling to or from Saltley Gate will need to transfer to the 8A or 8C services at Washwood Heath Road or Nechells Parkway.

These modifications are essential to accommodate the vital HS2 expansion and improve Birmingham’s transport infrastructure in the long term.