HS2 Works: M6 Weekend Closure (21st-24th Aug)

Ongoing HS2 works mean that closures are planned on the M6 over the weekend which will impact visitors coming to the NEC, including those attending the IBSA Convention.

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 ongoing HS2 works, the M6 will be fully closed in both directions between Junctions 4 and 4A, including all slip roads, from 9:00pm on Friday 21 August 2026 until 5:00am on Monday 24 August 2026. 

Travelling to the NEC 

If you are travelling via the M6 Southbound, please leave the motorway at Junction 4A, join the M42 Southbound, and follow the signs to the NEC.

If you are travelling via the M6 Northbound, please leave the motorway at Junction 4 and follow the A446 to the NEC, following local signage.

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 Eastway (Friday only) during this period.

Access to the A45 and M42 South via Southway is also unavailable due to the M42 Junction 6 bridge closure.

Traffic leaving the NEC for all destinations except M42 North should exit via 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. 

Further information:

National Highways website

HS2 website

HS2 Works: M6 Weekend Closure (21st - 24th Aug)