A new road connecting Birmingham Airport is now open, easing access for M42 drivers and improving local traffic flow.
Birmingham: A new road linking Birmingham Airport has finally opened after a long wait. This new route is set to change things for M42 drivers, making their journeys smoother.
The A4545 A-road and the new junction 5a of the M42 opened on December 18. This means easier access to the airport and other important spots like Birmingham Business Park and the NEC.
Construction started back in September 2021, and it’s all part of a big project by National Highways to improve traffic flow. The goal? To cut down on the heavy congestion at junction 6 of the M42. Sounds like a win for everyone, right?
This new dual carriageway connects junction 5a on the M42 to the Clock Interchange roundabout. It’s a direct route to the airport and a better way to get to Birmingham and the NEC. Locals in Solihull are pretty happy about it too, celebrating the new road.
Back in 2021, there were photos of the construction site, and while the original completion date was set for 2024 to 2025, the new road is already making a difference. Residents had been dealing with heavy traffic, especially during peak times.
On December 18, a post on the Marston Green Facebook page shared the good news: “The new A4545 and Catherine de Barnes Lane are now open!” People were thrilled to avoid the usual traffic jams.
One local even joked that Hampton-in-Arden could go back to being a quiet village instead of a busy racecourse. Another person mentioned how they zipped down the new road without the usual delays.
National Highways has opened the 2.4km stretch with one lane in each direction for now, but they expect the full dual carriageway to be ready by spring.
Anita Prashar from National Highways said this opening is a big step in easing congestion and boosting the local economy. They wanted to have it ready before the Christmas rush to help everyone traveling to the airport.
She added that while they’re excited about this milestone, there’s still more work to do. They appreciate everyone’s patience during the construction.
