A1 and Köhlbrand Bridge Closures in Hamburg Cause Major Disruptions
Hamburg, September 20 – Motorists in Hamburg are facing significant traffic disruptions this weekend as sections of the A1 motorway and the Köhlbrand Bridge are closed for essential construction and maintenance work. The closures, which began on Friday evening, are expected to last until Monday morning, with authorities urging drivers to plan ahead and use alternative routes.
A1 Southbound Closure Between Stillhorn and Harburg
The Autobahn 1 (A1) in Hamburg has been closed since Friday evening, September 18, at 10 PM, for construction work in the Süderelbe Bridge area. The closure affects the southbound lanes between the Hamburg-Stillhorn and Hamburg-Harburg junctions and is scheduled to remain in effect until Monday, September 21, at 5 AM.
According to the Autobahn GmbH, significant traffic jams and delays are to be expected. Drivers are advised to bypass the affected area over a wide radius. The local diversion, U76, leads traffic from the A1-Stillhorn junction via Kornweide, Bundesstraße 75, and Fünfhausener Landweg to the A1 Hamburg-Harburg junction.
For long-distance traffic heading south towards Bremen, the recommendation is to use a wider diversion via the A20, B206, and A7. The Autobahn GmbH emphasized the importance of checking current traffic conditions before starting a journey and allowing considerably more time for travel.
Construction Work on the Süderelbe Bridge
The closures are part of extensive construction work for the replacement of the Süderelbe Bridge. The aging Elbe bridges on the A1 are to be rebuilt. This weekend’s work includes road construction, as well as work on sheet pile walls and drainage systems, all in preparation for the larger project.
Köhlbrand Bridge Also Closed for Maintenance
In addition to the A1 closure, the Köhlbrand Bridge is also shut down this weekend. According to the city’s transport authority, maintenance and repair work are being carried out from Friday evening until Monday morning. This follows similar maintenance work on the bridge just last weekend.
Traffic Information and Further Outlook
Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest traffic situation through official channels. The closures are expected to have a substantial impact on traffic flow within Hamburg and the surrounding region. Authorities are working to minimize disruptions, but public cooperation in following diversions and planning journeys is crucial.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | September 18, 2026 | 06:30 AM.
