National Express bus routes in Birmingham set for HS2 disruption as Saltley Viaduct works begin
National Express bus routes in Birmingham will change from May 10 as HS2 work starts on Saltley Viaduct, with some services facing disruption for up to 18 months. The changes are tied to the closure needed while a new viaduct is built to support the area’s future transport needs. Passengers are being urged to plan ahead because journey times may be longer than usual.
Which National Express services are changing
The first National Express routes affected are the 8A and 8C services. There will be no change to their frequency, but the routeing will change from next month while work continues near Saltley Viaduct.
The 8C service towards Aston will divert from Adderley Road, continue to Washwood Heath Road, turn left into Aston Church Road, then left into Heartlands Parkway before rejoining the normal line of route after the junction with Saltley Viaduct. The 8A service towards Bordesley Green will follow the reverse route of the 8C. National Express passengers using these services should allow extra time for the altered journey.
What happens to the 14, 94 and 95 routes
The 14 service heading towards Birmingham will divert from Alum Rock Road, turn left into Adderley Road, then right into Duddeston Mill Road, before rejoining the normal line of route after the junction with Devon Street. Devon Street, Alderflat Place and Mainstream Way will not be served during this period. The 14 service towards Chelmsley Wood will follow the reverse of that route, and all bus stops will still be served on the diversion.
Services 94 and 95 will also be affected by the closure. Routes towards Birmingham will divert from Washwood Heath Road, turn right into Aston Church Road, then left into Heartlands Parkway before rejoining the normal line of route after the junction with Saltley Viaduct. Services heading towards Chelmsley Wood will follow the reverse of that route. For passengers needing Saltley Gate, the guidance is to change to services 8A and 8C at Washwood Heath Road or Nechells Parkway.
Why the HS2 work is causing the disruption
The disruption is linked to HS2 work on Saltley Viaduct, where the current bridge is not tall enough for HS2 to travel underneath. A new viaduct is being built so the area can support future transport needs, and that means bus movements around the site will be interrupted during construction.
National Express has not changed service frequencies on the affected routes, but the altered road layout means passengers should expect a slower trip and check their plans before setting out. With National Express services facing a long window of disruption, the key message is simple: travel may still be possible, but the usual route will not be in place. For many Birmingham passengers, National Express will remain running, but with detours that could last for months.
