A38(M) motorway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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| Aston Expressway | |
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_Aston_Expressway.jpg)
The motorway near Central Birmingham
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| Route information | |
| Maintained by Birmingham City Council | |
| Length | 2.0 mi (3.2 km) |
| Existed | 1972–present |
| History | Opened and completed: 1972 |
| Major junctions | |
| North end | Gravelly Hill |
 M6 motorway |
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| South end | Birmingham city centre |
| Location | |
| Counties: | West Midlands |
| Primary destinations: |
Birmingham city centre |
| Road network | |
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The A38(M), also known as the Aston Expressway, is a special road in Birmingham, England. It's a type of motorway, but it's quite short, only about 2 miles (3.2 km) long. This road connects the M6 motorway at Gravelly Hill Interchange to the heart of Birmingham city centre. It opened in 1972 and is part of the much longer A38 road.
Contents
What Makes the Aston Expressway Special?
The Aston Expressway is unusual because it has seven lanes, but no barrier in the middle. Instead, electronic signs above the road guide drivers. These signs use green ticks to show which lanes are open and red crosses for closed lanes. This system helps manage traffic flow.
Why Motorcycles Can't Use the Middle Lane
Motorcycles are not allowed in the middle lane of the Aston Expressway. This is because there are drains on the ground in that lane. These drains could make it dangerous for motorcycles, possibly causing them to crash.
Where Does the Road Go?
The Aston Expressway helps drivers get into and out of Birmingham city centre.
Starting Point: Gravelly Hill Interchange
The motorway begins at a big junction called Gravelly Hill Interchange, which is also known as Spaghetti Junction. This is where the A38(M) connects to the M6 motorway. From here, you can travel north towards places like Lichfield or south towards Coventry and Wolverhampton.
End Point: Dartmouth Circus
As you drive towards Birmingham city centre, the motorway ends at a roundabout called Dartmouth Circus. From here, drivers can connect to the A4540 road, which is part of Birmingham's Inner Ring Road. This road helps people reach different parts of the city like Handsworth, Ladywood, Aston, and Small Heath. After Dartmouth Circus, the road continues as the A38 into the city centre.
Images for kids
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Boulton & Watt blowing engine
