Commuters in the Black Country are gearing up for a weekend of traffic chaos as the iconic Hanson’s Mild Ale Bridge, standing tall over the A4123 Birmingham New Road near Dudley, is set to be dismantled. The removal of this landmark bridge is a crucial step in the ambitious tram extension project – Phase One of the Wednesbury-Brierley Hill track.
The operation, scheduled to take place from Friday to Monday, will necessitate the closure of both the road and nearby footpaths. Engineers will commence the dismantling process in mid-morning, creating a temporary inconvenience for motorists and pedestrians alike.
The Midland Metro Alliance, entrusted with the tram project by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), issued a notice via its website to inform the public about the significant construction activity and the ensuing closure. The message outlined the specifics of the operation: “From Friday, December 1, until Monday, December 4, a small section of Birmingham New Road either side of Hanson’s Bridge will close to vehicle and pedestrian traffic to enable the safe removal of the existing bridge deck.”
During this period, commuters navigating the area will have access to a clearly marked diversion route, ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and pedestrian movement. The Alliance, however, advises travelers to plan ahead and allocate extra time for their journeys. Furthermore, they reassured the community that additional closures would occur next year for the installation of a new structure, promising timely communication about these closures in coordination with local highway authorities.
Expressing regret for any inconvenience caused, the Midland Metro Alliance emphasized its willingness to address concerns raised by the community. The organization took to social media to heighten awareness, urging locals to plan ahead for potential disruptions: “Just a few days to go until works begin on Birmingham New Road. There will be localized diversions in place near Hanson’s Bridge; please plan ahead as this could impact your journey.”
Originally slated for completion this year, the Wednesbury-Brierley Hill tram link faced delays and cost overruns, prompting a phased approach to its construction. The first segment, connecting Wednesbury to Dudley, is now expected to open next year. The government’s commitment to the region’s transport infrastructure, marked by a £2.7 billion investment, comes in the wake of adjustments to the high-speed HS2 train development.
Hanson’s Mild Ale Bridge holds historical significance, adorned with advertising hoardings for the former Hanson’s Brewery. The brewery, once a prominent feature of Dudley High Street, closed its doors in 1991, leaving behind a legacy represented by three bridges carrying the brewery’s distinctive hoardings. Apart from the now-famous Hanson’s Mild Ale Bridge, these advertising platforms can be found in Parkfield Road, Ettingshall, and Stafford Road, Wolverhampton.
As the region braces for this pivotal phase of construction, the removal of Hanson’s Mild Ale Bridge symbolizes progress and change, albeit with a touch of nostalgia for a bygone era of brewing and community landmarks. The weekend closures are a temporary inconvenience for commuters, offering a glimpse into the transformative journey towards a modernized and efficient public transportation system in the Black Country.
