A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct
VolkerFitzpatrick delivered strengthening and refurbishment works to the A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct for Birmingham City Council, extending the life of one of Birmingham's most important transport links while keeping around 80,000 vehicles moving each day between the M6 and the city centre.
Strengthening the viaduct
VolkerFitzpatrick delivered strengthening and refurbishment works to the A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct for Birmingham City Council, helping to secure the long-term future of a vital transport link that carries around 80,000 vehicles a day between the M6 and Birmingham city centre. Built in the early 1970s near Spaghetti Junction, the 620m-long, 22-span structure had begun to show signs of deterioration, requiring significant intervention to improve its safety, resilience and lifespan.
The £59 million programme focused on extending the life of the existing asset through targeted strengthening works, anti-corrosion treatments and wider refurbishment activities, providing a sustainable alternative to full replacement. Delivered over four and a half years within a complex live infrastructure environment, the scheme remained operational throughout, minimising disruption to road users while preserving one of Birmingham's most important highways assets for decades to come.
Innovation and sustainability
Digital technologies played an important role throughout the project, improving quality assurance, safety and visibility of works within constrained areas of the structure. The use of 360-degree imaging, digital quality management systems and remote inspection tools enhanced oversight of works taking place within the viaduct's box girders, supporting efficient delivery and robust safety controls.
The scheme highlights the benefits of an asset-led approach to infrastructure management, extending the service life of an existing structure rather than replacing it. By preserving and strengthening the viaduct, the project reduced material demand, minimised disruption and delivered a more sustainable long-term solution for Birmingham's transport network.
Supporting the community
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.
Recognition
The A38(M) Tame Valley Viaduct Strengthening Scheme has received industry recognition for its engineering excellence, collaborative delivery approach and positive community impact, including success at the RICS West Midlands Awards and the CIHT West Midlands Awards.
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
