HS2 Works: M42 Weekend Closure (14th – 17th Aug)

Ongoing HS2 works mean that closures are planned on the M42 over the weekend which will impact visitors attending our site, including customers to the 2026 English OPEN Pickleball Tournament. 

While access to the NEC remains open, some routes will be operating differently, particularly when leaving the site.  

Getting to the NEC  

As part of the continuing HS2 works, the M42 Northbound and Southbound will be closed from Junctions 6–9 from 9:00pm on Friday 14 August 2026 until 5:00am on Monday 17 August 2026.  

Access to the NEC remains open, although the following diversions have been put in place:    

• If you are travelling via the M42 Northbound, please leave the motorway at Junction 6 and follow the normal route to the NEC.   

• If you are travelling via the M42 Southbound, please leave the motorway at Junction 9 and follow the A446 Southbound to the NEC.  

Leaving the NEC  

Ongoing HS2 works and current traffic restrictions at M42 Junction 6 means that customers will only be able to leave site via certain routes.   

Please be aware:   

• There will be no exit from the NEC via Southway or Eastway 

• All exiting traffic must leave via the Northway  

• Clearly signed diversion routes will be in place to guide you.  

Plan Ahead

We recommend allowing a little extra time for your journey, particularly when leaving the venue after the event. Traffic management measures and diversion routes are in place to help keep visitors moving, and our teams are working closely with National Highways and local partners to minimise disruption.  

For more information please see:  
 
National Highways website 

HS2 website