From 19 to 28 October 2026, the A4169 between Shifnal and The Hem will close fully from 9.30am to 4pm on weekdays. The closure covers the carriageway and the Bridgnorth Road roundabout with its approaches. Work will take place during daylight hours.
Shropshire Council plans to resurface the entire stretch, removing the worn top layer and laying new asphalt. This method differs from patching, which fixes individual potholes, or surface dressing, which seals the road with binder and chippings. Resurfacing is necessary when the road’s condition deteriorates beyond spot repairs.
How the closure works
The road reopens outside working hours, with closures in place mid-mornings to late afternoons to avoid rush hour traffic. Residents and businesses within the closure area retain access when safe. Pedestrians, dismounted cyclists, horse riders, and emergency vehicles on blue lights can pass through. All other drivers must follow a signed diversion.
The council advises against parking on the road while work is underway. Some drivers may be able to take alternative diversions depending on vehicle type, reflecting Shropshire’s approach to manage disruption.
Resurfacing the roundabout
The Bridgnorth Road roundabout requires full closure because roundabouts experience more wear than straight sections. Vehicles braking, turning, and accelerating cause steady shear stress, leading to faster surface deterioration. Working with the roundabout closed allows the surfacing team to lay asphalt continuously across the whole carriageway.
Continuous runs reduce the number of joints, which are common failure points when resurfacing happens in sections. This approach typically enhances the lifespan of the new surface.
Daytime working and weather considerations
Daytime working ensures the asphalt stays hot enough for proper compaction. October’s daylight and warmer temperatures help maintain the necessary conditions. The alternative—working under temporary lane closures with traffic lights—would likely cause significant delays, as seen in similar schemes in Oxfordshire.
Impact and planning
Drivers should plan for the diversion between 9.30am and 4pm on weekdays from 19 October. Access for residents remains open but with possible delays near the work zone. The council lists these works on the One Network roadworks website for the latest information.
Assuming the timetable holds, the road will reopen fully after 4pm on Wednesday 28 October with a renewed surface, reducing future maintenance needs and improving long-term road condition on this key route in Shropshire.
