Completion of A417 missing link map and Roadwork Timeline
The A417 missing link map project in Gloucestershire has been approved by the government, making it one of the largest road developments in the area for many years. The upgrade will cost £460 million and involve replacing the current single-carriageway section between the Air Balloon and Cowley roundabouts with a new dual-carriageway. The aim of the project is to reduce congestion and accidents at the well-known bottleneck that connects the M5 in Gloucestershire with the M4 in Wiltshire. While motorists are generally supportive of the scheme, there are concerns about the impact on traffic and the four-year construction timeline, which is set to begin in 2023. National Highways has provided more information on the completion date, management of the roadworks, and the different stages of construction, although these dates may be subject to change. A visual representation of the project includes plans for the Gloucestershire Way crossing.
Construction in both Offline and Online World
The construction project will encompass both offline and online work. During offline construction, workers will be stationed away from the A417, causing minimal disruption for motorists using the existing road. On the other hand, online construction will take place directly on the A417, resulting in temporary roadworks and/or controflows that will impact drivers. To visualize this, imagine phase one of the construction depicted in yellow and phase two in purple. By adhering to this plan, we can ensure that the necessary work is carried out efficiently while minimizing inconvenience for those traveling along the A417.
Phase 1: Mainly Offline Construction (Late 2023 to Late 2025)
Phase 1 of the project will involve a combination of offline and online work, with minimal impact on journeys along the A417. However, there will be some online activities that may cause slight disruptions. In late 2023, widening work will be undertaken at Crickley Hill to enable the installation and operation of traffic management systems during the main construction phase. From early 2024, construction of the offline section between the Air Balloon roundabout and the Cowley junction will commence. This will include the creation of new junctions, such as the A436 to Shab Hill, as well as the realignment of the B4070 road and the construction of necessary crossings. The goal of Phase 1 is to redirect traffic from the old A417 to the newly-built road. To accommodate ongoing construction during Phase 2, traffic management measures and contraflows will be implemented.
Phase 2: Mainly Online Construction (Late 2025 to End 2026)
Phase 2 of the project will predominantly take place online, resulting in the greatest impact on drivers using the A417. However, it’s important to note that these disruptions will be temporary, while the benefits of the new road will have a lasting impact. The construction work during this phase will focus on the new section of the A417, including the development of associated junctions and crossings. Additionally, the existing road between Brockworth and the Air Balloon roundabout will be widened to accommodate increased traffic flow. As part of the project, the old A417 will be repurposed into a picturesque route for walking, cycling, and horse riding, providing a wonderful opportunity for public use. The local road network will also undergo reconfiguration to connect seamlessly with the new A417. Efforts will be made to enhance biodiversity and reduce the visual impact of the road through the planting of trees, hedgerows, and grassland. Once construction is completed by early 2027, Kier will hand over the road to the National Highways operating team for its official opening to traffic.
Kier’s Statements
The appointed constructors, Kiers, have recently joined the project to complete the A417 construction. They have made a commitment to minimize any disturbances by implementing the following strategies. Firstly, they plan to keep the current A417 open throughout the duration of the construction, with the exception of occasional nighttime closures. Additionally, they will make use of the newly constructed road sections to transport materials, which will help reduce traffic congestion on the existing road. Another noteworthy approach they will take is the reuse of excavated materials from the surrounding landscape whenever possible. Lastly, Kiers will meticulously plan and manage the roadworks to prioritize safety at all times. This comprehensive plan ensures that the construction process will proceed smoothly while minimizing any disruption to the surrounding community. Illustrated plans for the A417 missing link map at Birdlip provide visual insight into this ambitious undertaking.
The Importance of the A417 missing link map
The recently approved Missing Link scheme by National Highways is set to greatly enhance the connectivity between the dual-carriageway sections of the A417 at Brockworth and Cowley, resulting in improved links between the M4 at Swindon and the M5 at Gloucester/Cheltenham. With an average daily traffic load of approximately 40,000 vehicles, the road often experiences congestion, leading some drivers to seek alternative routes on local roads to avoid delays. Unfortunately, these diversions put added strain on nearby communities as the local roads were not designed to accommodate such heavy traffic. However, with the green light given for this essential stretch of road to be enhanced, measures can now be taken to ensure safety, reduce congestion, and alleviate the adverse impact of increased traffic on surrounding villages. This significant development will not only make commuting easier but also support regional growth and enhance the quality of life in local communities. We would like to express our gratitude to all those who have provided feedback and contributed to shaping this vital scheme. Going forward, we will continue to work closely with environmental stakeholders and local communities to ensure open communication and minimal disruption during the construction phase, which is scheduled to commence in 2023. Although a six-week judicial review period lies ahead, preparations for the project will begin in early 2023, with construction following in the subsequent year. The ultimate goal is to create a road network that is efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable, allowing individuals to navigate seamlessly while fostering the prosperity of the region. Visual representations of the proposed upgrades can be found in the accompanying image.
Speak your mind here
The A417 missing link map, in collaboration with contractor Kier, will be embarking on a journey to various locations in a mobile exhibition van. Their purpose is to provide the community with an update on the project’s progress and address any queries or concerns they might have. These dedicated individuals will be accessible on specific dates and timings, eager to enlighten and engage with the public. For instance, on Tuesday, November 22nd, they will be stationed at the Royal George Hotel in Birdlip. On Wednesday, November 23rd, their exhibition van will be found at the National Star College in Ullenwood, Cheltenham. The following day, Thursday, November 24th, they will be present at the Brockworth Community Centre in Gloucester. Lastly, on Friday, November 25th, they open their doors outside M&S on High Street in Cheltenham. This initiative forms part of our efforts to keep the community informed and involved in this significant development. Ensure you’re up to date with the latest news from across Gloucestershire by subscribing to our newsletter.
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