Week-long shutdown of major Birmingham rail line this summer: commuters warned of disruption
One of Birmingham’s busiest commuter rail lines will shut down for a full week this summer, forcing thousands of passengers onto replacement buses and longer routes.
From 28 July to 3 August, trains will stop running between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley due to essential repairs and viaduct work.
Passengers face replacement buses, longer commutes, and diversions. We break down what’s happening - and why.
Watch the video: Richard Gullick reports
From Monday 28 July to Sunday 3 August, no trains will run between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley due to major repair work.
The closure, originally linked to HS2, will now be used for track upgrades, drainage repairs, and vegetation clearance. At the same time, Birmingham City Council will carry out structural work on the Tame Valley Viaduct.
The southern section of the Cross-City Line, running to Redditch and Bromsgrove, will remain open. But all northern services will be suspended.
Replacement buses will run to Lichfield and Tame Bridge Parkway, while trains to Rugeley Trent Valley will divert via Aston, adding extra travel time.
Network Rail says the closure was scheduled during the school holidays to reduce disruption, but warns delays of up to 30 minutes are likely. Commuters are urged to plan ahead.