Repair and re-waterproofing work starts on M6 Walsall canal bridge
The first phase of work to replace joints and re-waterproof the deck of the Walsall canal bridge between junctions 10 and 9 of the M6 will take place from tonight (28 April).
The work, which also includes repairs to the concrete structure, will take 10 weeks and will be carried out on the southbound carriageway between 10pm and 6am from Mondays to Saturdays.
It will be necessary to close the southbound carriageway on up to 10 nights to install, change or remove traffic management. The southbound exit slip road at junction 10 will also need to be closed when required for traffic management purposes. Diversion routes will be clearly signed. Dates for closures are still to be confirmed and will be publicised in advance. On all other nights the work will be carried out under lane closures.
Three lanes will be kept open during the day although narrow lanes and a 40mph speed limit will be in place 24/7.
Highways Agency Project Manager Colin Jackson, said:
The current waterproofing is coming to the end of its life. Replacing it now and carrying out any necessary concrete repairs to the bridge reduces the need for future maintenance and the associated disruption to road users.
There may be times during construction when it will appear that no work is being carried out. This is because concrete needs time to cure and once poured we are unable to progress the scheme until that process is complete.
It is also important to stress that the work is weather sensitive and, until the concrete is exposed, we do not know the exact number and size of repairs. If there are more than envisaged or the weather is unfavourable then the planned phases of the work and associated road closures could be affected.
During the work we advise people to allow extra time for their journeys and be patient as they drive through the roadwork.
While closures are in place, traffic will be diverted off the M6 at junction 10 and along the A454, A4148 and A34 around Walsall to rejoin the motorway at junction 7.
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer