A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct
VolkerFitzpatrick is providing strengthening and refurbishment works to the A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct for Birmingham City Council, which currently carries around 80,000 vehicles a day and links the M6 to the city centre.
Strengthening the viaduct
Built in the early 1970s, the 620m-long composite viaduct, located at the northern end of the A38(M) Aston Expressway near ‘Spaghetti Junction’, had begun to show signs of deterioration. Our works have ensured the structure’s long-term safety, functionality and resilience, preserving this key transport link for decades to come. The viaduct is 25 metres wide and carries seven lanes of traffic across 22 spans.
VolkerFitzpatrick strengthened the viaduct’s superstructure through the addition of steel plates, secured using a combination of welding and bolting. Alongside these works, anti‑corrosion coatings and wider refurbishment activities were undertaken to improve durability and extend the structure’s lifespan. Throughout the project, the viaduct has remained operational to minimise disruption, with works delivered using high-level access platforms spanning from pier to pier.
Supporting the community
We have delivered significant social value throughout the scheme, delivering over an impressive £92 million in social value by supporting local communities across Birmingham. This has included extensive engagement with schools, colleges and employability groups, providing over 800 hours of educational activity, more than 300 weeks of work experience and ongoing support for T-Level students.
We have also worked with a range of local charities and organisations to address key challenges such as homelessness and unemployment, contributing over £53,000 in donations and more than 2,000 volunteer hours. Alongside wider community initiatives, the project has supported the regional economy through substantial local spend with SMEs and voluntary sector organisations, reinforcing our commitment to creating lasting positive impact in the areas where we work.
This is a significant investment into a key piece of our city's highways infrastructure. If we are to ensure people can move around the city as easy as possible and help business flourish, it is vital we carry out projects like this.
Cllr Liz Clements, Cabinet Member for Transport at Birmingham City Council