Multi-million pound A46 Walsgrave junction upgrade approved to tackle Midlands congestion
The A46 is one of the UK’s major trade routes
Last updated 4th Feb 2026
A multi-million pound project to upgrade and improve the A46 Walsgrave junction has been approved, marking a significant step forward for improving connectivity and reducing congestion in the Midlands.
Lord Hendy, on behalf of the Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander, approved a Development Consent Order (DCO) today (February 4th) for the A46 Walsgrave junction upgrade project, which is part of the crucial Trans-Midlands Trade Corridor between the M5 and Humber Ports.
The A46 is one of the UK’s major trade routes, serving millions of people, supporting jobs, and connecting inland manufacturing and distribution hubs with major ports.
The Walsgrave junction connects the A46 to the B4082 and is currently a three-arm priority roundabout, which causes substantial congestion in the area.
The new-look junction will allow for a free flowing A46 carriageway while also enabling drivers to enter and exit the local road network.
Construction is scheduled to commence in autumn 2026, with the £112 million scheme expected to be completed and open to traffic by 2028.
National Highways Project Manager Emma Winter said:
“Motorways and major A roads play a key role in keeping the UK economy moving, carrying a third of all traffic and two thirds of freight. The A46 is a major trade corridor between the South West, the Midlands and the North, which is why we need to remove this bottleneck on the outskirts of Coventry.
“The new-look Walsgrave junction will reduce delays by delivering much-needed additional capacity, better connectivity and safer journeys for the 57,000 drivers using the road every day.”
Policy Lead for RHA, which represents road hauliers, James Barwise, said:
“We welcome the decision to give consent for the A46 Walsgrave Junction upgrade. The A46 is a vital strategic road for hauliers, coaches and vans, connecting businesses and ports either side of the country.
“Schemes such as this and the emerging A46 Newark Bypass are critical to ensuring that this route supports the frictionless movement of goods and unlocks economic growth for businesses across the Midlands.”