New key junction opens on major UK motorway – but you won’t find it on Google Maps

Motorists can now use a alongside one of the UK’s busiest – but road users may struggle to find the route on . 

have completed work on the A4545 link road and Junction 5a of the M42 with the route open since Wednesday.

The new 2.4km dual carriageway will link junction 5a on the M42 with the Clock Interchange roundabout. 

This will provide access from the M42 to Birmingham Airport and Birmingham Business Park. 

The plans were at junction 6 at the M42, which is the exit for the popular National Exhibition Centre (NEC).

The road has been opened initially with just one lane running in both directions. 

The dual carriageway is expected to be fully operational by Spring 2025 in a boost to the local area. 

Regional Delivery Director, Anita Prashar, said the route would make trips “easier for motorists”.

Anita said: “Opening up the new link road and junction is an important milestone in this essential scheme which will ultimately ease the congestion issues in the area and promote economic growth.

“We wanted to make sure we opened the road ahead of the Christmas holiday as we know it will make a significant and positive difference to the journeys of visitors, local communities, and businesses. 

“We’re making journeys easier for motorists heading to Birmingham Airport by providing direct access from the southern M42 to the airport.”

However, in a shock twist, road users may be unable to find the new road, as it is not yet appearing on Google Maps. 

From the air, the location of the new road appears only as a construction site with the tarmac not even laid. 

Anita added: “We are delighted to have reached this key milestone but appreciate that more work has to be carried out over the coming months so we are grateful to the local communities and road users for their continued patience.”