M42 motorway bridge struck by lorries set to be demolished

The bridge was hit by two lorries in separate incidents earlier this month, National Highways said

A motorway bridge is to be demolished after being hit by vehicles about 20 times in the past 10 years.

The structure, which sits between junctions seven and six on the M42 near Birmingham Airport, was recently struck twice in one week by lorries.

A stretch of the M42 will close from 21:00 GMT on 9 February to 05:00 on 12 February as the bridge is removed.

All diversion routes during the weekend closure would be clearly signed, National Highways said.

The bridge carries the A452 over the motorway and is now only used by HS2 construction crews, a spokesperson added.

The structure will be removed during work between 9 and 12 February

National Highways manager Greg Fernee said the bridge was due to be demolished next year, but the "safest" and "most cost-effective" way was to demolish it earlier than planned.

"Existing lane closures will remain in place for safety reasons until that can be achieved," he added.

Drivers planning to travel during the closure are advised to allow extra time or seek alternative routes.