New bridge for Metro extension set to be installed

A picture of the new bridge has been released ahead of it being installed next month

A bridge for the first phase of the Metro extension in the West Midlands will be installed next month, transport bosses say.

A short stretch of Birmingham New Road was shut in December last year to allow for the Hanson's Ale bridge to be removed, and replaced with a new structure.

This is part of the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension, Transport for West Midlands said.

It added the design of the new bridge is a nod to its predecessor.

The replacement, which is the same colour and design as the original, will be installed on 7 June.

Drivers are being warned about disruption while the work is carried out.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “It’s very special that the Metro team have ensured that a much-loved local landmark is returning with a modern purpose-built structure but retaining all of its previous charm."

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said the extension would boost the Black Country’s sustainable public transport options.

• Both north and southbound traffic lanes will close either side of the bridge while the new structure is lowered into place from 22:00 on 7 June to 05:00 BST Monday 10 June

• Both north and southbound traffic lanes close to the bridge will temporarily shut as work continues between the same times on 14 June to Monday 17 June

• One side of the road will close between 22:00 on 21 June to 05:00 BST on 24 June for more work. Traffic will flow in southernly direction using one lane only

A diversion route will be in place, Transport for West Midlands said.