Traffic changes came into effect along Broad Street this morning as part of the ongoing construction of the Birmingham Westside tram extension.

The restrictions will mean that Broad Street will only be accessible to buses, Hackney Carriages and servicing vehicles between Granville Street and Paradise Circus Queensway. This will be a long-term restriction whilst the tram extension is under construction.

Bridge Street will be closed at the junction of Broad Street and Centenary Square, with access maintained for pedestrians and cyclists only. Three pick-up points for taxis and private vehicles will be installed on Cambridge Street, Bridge Street and Bishopsgate Street.

For approximately four weeks there will be temporary traffic signals with a shuttle lane running on the approach from Five Ways to Broad Street. Vehicles will only be able to turn left from Bishopsgate Street and Sheepcote Street onto Broad Street although this restriction will be removed prior to the IAAF World Indoor Athletics event.

Pedestrian and cycle routes in the area will be maintained and traffic marshals will on-hand to assist with any queries the public may have.

The extension, designed and built by the Midland Metro Alliance working on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority, is the next phase of works following the tram extension from St Chads to Grand Central which opened for passenger service in May 2016. Construction on this new arm, which is just over 2kms in length, started in summer 2017 and will be delivered in two phases. Trams are expected to operate to Centenary Square in 2019 and to Edgbaston in 2021. Steve Grimes, Project Director for the Birmingham Westside Extension for the Midland Metro Alliance, said:

“We understand that nobody likes disruption to their regular travel plans but we are working with the Birmingham City Council, Westside Business Improvement District and Transport for West Midlands to minimise our impact wherever possible.

"Our Engagement Team will continue to work with local businesses and residents to keep them up-to-date with our plans.”

Councillor Stewart Stacey, Birmingham City Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Roads, added:  “Whilst short-term disruption is unavoidable, the tram extension through Centenary Square to Edgbaston is crucial for the city’s continued development and regeneration.

"It is exciting that these works are accelerating with the Midland Metro Alliance continuing their work to bring these plans into fruition.”

For any further questions about the work, including frequently asked questions and traffic diversion maps, you can visit metroalliance.co.uk or email communications@metroalliance.co.uk.