A three-week closure of the A46 which will allow HS2 to install its new bridge near Kenilworth is likely to be pushed back due to the ongoing delays around the Stoneleigh junction works.

The high speed rail developer has already confirmed it will need the dual carriageway to be completely shut next year so the new underbridge can be pushed into place.

The closure was scheduled for "early 2025", although preparatory works are already underway and the bridge is being built next to the road.

But with the ongoing delays around Warwickshire County Council's (WCC) major scheme at Stoneleigh Island, the HS2 closure may need to be put back, as the council is still unable to confirm when the project will actually be completed.

An update from WCC portfolio holder for finance and property Cllr Peter Butlin said HS2 will not close the road until the new junction is complete.

"Based on the progress of the required remaining design and construction activities we do now envisage the completion date [at Stoneleigh junction] will be beyond the end of 2024," the update said.

"A full update will be provided to stakeholders once the latest programme has been updated and validated.

"HS2 has said subsequently that the 21 days both-way closure of the A46 will not proceed until late spring or when the Stoneleigh Junction work is complete whichever is later.

"We are working closely with HS2 and their contractors to manage the interface between the projects and minimise impact on their programme."

Originally due to cost £38 million, the council's project at A46 junction is already two years behind schedule and £4,673,000 over budget, with costs expected to rise further.

When HS2 is able to implement its three week closure, contractors will remove the existing road surface and slide the bridge into place and then build a new road over the top.