The proposals
A new motorway service area for the M42
Extra MSA is bringing forward plans for a new motorway service area alongside the M42, between Junctions 5 and 6, near Hampton-in-Arden and Catherine-de-Barnes.
The development will provide a safe and welcoming place for motorway users to stop, rest, recharge and refuel, with a range of facilities designed to meet the needs of different road users.
Planning permission for the development was granted in March 2022, with amendments subsequently approved in May 2026.
What is proposed?
The motorway service area will include:
- A main amenity building offering food, drink, retail and rest facilities.
- A hotel providing overnight accommodation.
- Fuel facilities for cars and heavy goods vehicles.
- Electric vehicle charging facilities.
- Dedicated parking for cars, HGVs, coaches and caravans, including accessible parking spaces.
- Internal access roads and circulation routes.
- Extensive landscaping, woodland planting and biodiversity enhancements.
- Supporting infrastructure, including drainage and utilities.
The proposals aim to create a modern motorway service area that meets the needs of drivers and passengers while responding sensitively to its surroundings.
Site location and access
The site is situated to the west of the M42, between Junctions 5 and 6, to the east of Catherine-de-Barnes and west of Hampton-in-Arden.
Access to the motorway service area will be provided via Junction 5a of the M42, connecting to the site through a dedicated access road.
There will be no direct vehicular access between the motorway service area and Solihull Road.
Landscaping and the environment
Landscaping forms an important part of the proposals, with extensive areas of new planting designed to integrate the development into the surrounding countryside.
The proposals include woodland, native trees, hedgerows and wildflower planting, alongside measures to protect and enhance the site’s natural environment.
The design has evolved to provide additional opportunities for landscaping and biodiversity improvements.
The next steps
Following the granting of outline planning permission and subsequent amendments, the project is progressing through the detailed design and Reserved Matters planning process.
Further information about the design, landscaping and planning programme is available on the other pages of this website.