Nine Day Train Disruption Ahead on Cross City Line
This summer, train travelers in the West Midlands are in for some significant disruptions as the northern section of the Cross City line will be shut down for nine days. The closure, scheduled from Saturday, July 26, to Sunday, August 3, is necessary to facilitate the construction of a new HS2 viaduct near Birmingham’s Curzon Street station. Trains will resume normal service on Monday, August 4.
The closure will affect all train services between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley, meaning no direct rail connections for passengers traveling to and from several key stations, including Aston, Gravelly Hill, Erdington, Chester Road, Sutton Coldfield, and Four Oaks. For many commuters, this will complicate their daily routines, with travel to and from the city center becoming more challenging.
I understand that lots of journeys will be affected, which is why we are telling people as early as possible so they can plan ahead. Passengers should check with West Midlands Railway and National Rail Enquiries for travel information. Thank you to everyone for their patience while this vital work takes place.
In response to the disruption, rail replacement bus services will operate between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley, as well as Tame Bridge Parkway. Passengers traveling to Rugeley Trent Valley will experience longer journeys as services are rerouted during the closure. Those travelling towards Rugeley Trent Valley are likely to experience longer journeys, particularly at times of high demand.
Travel to Birmingham's northern suburbs, including Four Oaks and Chester Road, will also be disrupted. For those visiting the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park or the nearby countryside, Four Oaks is a common starting point. Meanwhile, Chester Road station is a popular stop for those visiting the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, with its rich collection of fine art and cultural history. With no direct train service during the closure, visitors will need to plan their journey carefully.
While trains between Birmingham New Street and Redditch or Bromsgrove will continue without disruption, the northern part of the Cross City line will experience the most significant delays. Many suburban areas to the north of Birmingham will experience limited accessibility, and passengers are urged to check train schedules, plan alternate routes, and allow extra time for their journeys during this period.