Dates for the second phase of the essential refurbishment works in the A38 tunnels through Birmingham city centre have been released.

The St Chad’s and Queensway tunnels will be completely closed to all traffic from 10pm on Friday July 18 until 6am on Monday September 1.

These will be preceded by two weeks of overnight closures, from 10pm to 6am, and followed by up to four weeks of similar overnight closures.

The second phase of the works will complete the upgrade to the tunnels by renewing the ventilation system, installing new security and communications, replacing electrical systems and refurbishing pumping stations and plant.

Private contractor Amey, working in partnership with Birmingham City Council, will cotninue to liaise with business representatives and organisations from across the city to minimise disruption.

Coun Tahir Ali, Birmingham City Council cabinet member for development, jobs and skills, said: “We are urging people to make a note of these dates and consider what travel choices they can make while these essential works are completed.”

Steve Ashley, business director at Amey, said: “The works that we are carrying out in the tunnels this year will not only complete the upgrade to comply with modern European standards but will also see us installing technology that will assist with the management of the tunnels in the future.”

Further information on traffic management will be released in the months before the closure.