MOTORISTS have been warned of delays and diversions next weekend as a major road tunnel is set to close in both directions.
The Kingsway Tunnel on the A59, which connects Liverpool to Wallasey, will be fully shut to traffic in order for key maintenance work to take place.
The Kingsway Tunnel between Liverpool and Wallasey will close in both directions between March 23 and 24[/caption]
Also known as the Wallasey Tunnel, the busy route will close in both directions from 7pm on Sunday, March 23, until 6.30am on Monday, March 24.
Merseytravel said the closure is part of an “ongoing investment and modernisation programme” that aims to “futureproof” the tunnels.
The route is a key part of the city region’s transport network and is one of just two road crossings underneath the River Mersey.
A spokesperson for the transport agency said: “Key maintenance works are being carried out at the Kingsway Tunnel which means it will be closed fully to traffic from 19:00 on Sunday 23rd March 2025 to 6.30 on Monday 24th March 2025.
“This is part of an ongoing investment and modernisation programme to futureproof the tunnels as a key part of the city region transport network and a vital a cross river travel connection.”
Diversion routes will be in place to help ensure drivers can connect their journeys, however heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will be more limited with where they can travel.
Most motorists will be able to use the nearby Queensway (Birkenhead) Tunnel which operates in both directions.
However, HGVs are not permitted to use this route so will likely have to find an alternative route using bridges to cross the River Mersey near Runcorn.
Bus services across the river will be diverted through the Queensway Tunnel and passengers have been advised to check directly with their operator for any changes to journeys.
A spokesperson for Merseytravel added: “The Queensway (Birkenhead) tunnel will be open as usual but please leave more time for your journey.
“Heavy Goods Vehicles are not permitted through the Queensway (Birkenhead) Tunnel so please find an alternative route.
“Cross river bus services will be diverted through Queensway and so passengers are advised to check directly with their operator for any changes to their journey and plan ahead.”
The transport agency has advised those planning to use the Kingsway Tunnel in the early hours of Monday, March 24, to check before they travel.
A spokesperson for the body added: “We would like to thank drivers for their patience while we complete this essential maintenance.”
This comes after drivers were left in gridlock following a lorry crash on a major A-road yesterday.
The A12 in London was plagued with chock-a-block traffic during the peak of rush-hour on Monday morning after a lorry collided with part of a tunnel.
Huge queues formed as the southbound route of the Blackwall Tunnel was shut and motorists were advised to take alternative routes to avoid the “severe” delays.
Diversion routes in place for Kingsway Tunnel closure
Drivers approaching from the Wirral should follow diversion routes off the A59.
These will take you through Birkenhead towards the Queensway Tunnel, where you can cross into Liverpool.
Those approaching from Liverpool should follow diversion routes off the A59 into the heart of the city.
There, you will be able to join the Queensway Tunnel to Birkenhead, where you can then re-join the A59, after following the diversion route through the area.
Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are unable to use the Queensway Tunnel and should seek alternative routes.
The toll route under the River Mersey is used by around 45,000 drivers each day[/caption]
