Morning everyone,
A massive indoor beach is coming to the Gracechurch Centre this summer, and thousands of runners will be descending on Sutton Park this weekend for the Birmingham Running Festival.
But first — the local traffic situation is looking incredibly heavy this week. Here are the locations most likely to cause delays over the coming week.
🚨 Critical Traffic Warnings
Thornhill Road (July 18–28): Full closure by Staffordshire County Council for mobile highway repairs. The closure stretches all the way from the County Boundary (Foley Road East) up to the Hardwick Road Roundabout, running right past Streetly Methodist Church and Da Gino. Diversions will be in place.
Little Aston Road (July 17–27): Full closure by Staffordshire County Council for highway repairs. The road is shut from the A452 Chester Road junction (by The Old Irish Harp) up to Aldridge Road.
Bakers Lane (July 21–22): Severn Trent Water is enforcing give-and-take traffic control from 8:00am to 6:00pm near The Queslett pub roundabout and Donegal Road by King George's Field. Expect slow-moving traffic on the approach.
🚧 Ongoing Local Disruptions
Stonehouse Road: Two-way signals in place July 20–22 by South Staffordshire Water. Works are located near the Monmouth Drive, Corbridge Road, and Melrose Avenue junctions right by Powell's Pool.
Reddicap Hill & Reddicap Heath Road:
Reddicap Hill (July 16–22): Two-way signals near the Reddicap Trading Estate.
Reddicap Heath Road (July 27–Sep 25): Advanced warning for major Cadent Gas pipe replacements requiring multi-way signals near Walsh Drive and Freeman Drive.
Hollyfield Road: Overnight two-way signals (7:00pm–6:00am) on July 21–22 by Severn Trent Water near Rectory Park Avenue.
Tamworth Road: Lane closures starting next week (July 23–31) to construct speed cushions outside numbers 32, 42, and 35a, near Keepers Gate and Highclare St Pauls School.
Lichfield Road: Multi-way signals on July 24 outside 551 Lichfield Road, near the junctions for Hill Hook Road and Badgers Bank Road.
📰 Local News
Gracechurch Centre Summer Beach: The Gracechurch Centre is introducing a massive family-friendly indoor beach installation under the canopy area this summer. Complete with sand, deckchairs, and children's entertainment, it is part of new owner SAV Group's vision to reposition the centre as a vibrant community hub with recurring events.
Local Library Refurbishments Approved: The Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council has officially approved a range of improvements for local libraries and community centres. Mere Green, Walmley, and Boldmere libraries will soon benefit from redecorating, new floor coverings, and facility upgrades.
💛 Community Spotlight: Birmingham Running Festival
If you're heading to Sutton Park this Sunday, expect a massive atmosphere!
The Birmingham Running Festival returns to the park on Sunday, July 19. With options for a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, and a dedicated kids' race, it is a fantastic community event raising money for local charities. Even if you aren't running, head down to the park to cheer on the locals taking part.
🎉 What's On This Weekend
Birmingham Running Festival (Sutton Park): Sunday, July 19. Races start throughout the morning. Spectators welcome.
Social Running Club (Sutton Park): Saturday, July 18. Meet at the Town Gate entrance on Park Road for a community run. £3.50 entry.
Walking Club (Wyndley Leisure Centre): Saturday, July 18. Improve your fitness and explore the park. Meet at SE Fitness Headquarters. £3.50 entry.
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Drive safe,
Sutton Coldfield Insider