Birmingham braces as major events set to cause Super Weekend travel disruption

Birmingham’s Super Weekend, happening from July 5–6, 2025, promises to be packed with major events.

With headline events including Black Sabbath's final performance, ELO's farewell tour, the Colmore Food Festival, and the England vs. India cricket match, the city is preparing for a massive surge in visitors.

But the excitement comes with a price - significant road closures, transport disruptions, and gridlock are expected across Birmingham.

Thousands are set to flood the city for these high-profile events, which promise to deliver entertainment, food, and sporting thrills. But officials are urging visitors to plan ahead as roads, public transport, and key areas will be heavily affected.

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One of the largest draws, Black Sabbath's "Back To The Beginning" festival at Villa Park on July 5, will bring huge crowds to Aston and the A41 corridor.

Roads in the area are expected to close due to foot traffic and congestion, with delays likely, especially after the event. Public transport is strongly recommended for those attending, as businesses nearby brace for both increased customers and travel disruption.

Meanwhile, fans heading to ELO's "Over And Out" farewell tour at the Utilita Arena on July 5 and 6 should also expect traffic headaches. Roads in Bordesley Green and Digbeth, particularly around the B4100 and Bordesley Circus, will be congested. Full capacity crowds mean parking will be limited. Officials urge attendees to rely on public transport and check for service updates, as delays are anticipated.

Cricket enthusiasts heading to Edgbaston Stadium for the England vs. India match, running through to July 6, should also prepare for disruption. Roads around Edgbaston Park Road, Calthorpe Road, and Selly Oak will see closures and increased foot traffic. Public transport remains the recommended option for match-goers to avoid lengthy delays.

In Birmingham city centre, the popular Colmore Food Festival, held in Victoria Square on July 4–5, will close off key roads including New Street, Broad Street, and Hurst Street. Pedestrian access will be restricted in some areas, and congestion near The Bullring is expected to worsen. With large crowds anticipated, organisers advise early arrival to avoid long waits.

The city's transport system will be under pressure all weekend. Bus routes around Villa Park, Edgbaston, and Bordesley Green face diversions, and major train stations like New Street and Moor Street are expected to be much busier than usual.

Read more: Birmingham's 'Super Weekend' to welcome 200000 visitors!

Authorities are urging visitors to ditch their cars and use public transport wherever possible. With widespread road closures, packed streets, and limited parking, it’s the most reliable way to navigate the city during the weekend’s events.

The atmosphere will be electric as music fans in Black Sabbath shirts and ELO merchandise mix with cricket supporters and food lovers across the city.

But with the energy comes inevitable disruption—traffic gridlock, long queues, and crowded public spaces are guaranteed.

Local businesses in busy areas like Victoria Square and Digbeth are expected to benefit from the increased footfall, with the Super Weekend projected to inject £20 million into Birmingham's economy.

But the influx of visitors will also strain city infrastructure, with traffic delays and public transport disruptions almost certain.

The advice is clear: check your routes, allow extra time, and expect some inconvenience. With careful planning, residents and visitors alike can enjoy one of Birmingham’s most exciting weekends of the year.