Motorists near Cheltenham should prepare for a five-night closure on the A436 Stow Road, which will be undergoing essential resurfacing works starting tonight, April 28, through to Tuesday, May 5. The closure affects a two-mile stretch between Salperton Road and Westfield Cottages, located about 10 miles east of Cheltenham.
The road will be closed nightly from 8pm to 7am, with no restrictions during the weekend or on Bank Holiday Monday, May 4.
Despite the relatively short length of the closure, Gloucestershire County Council’s Highways team has established a 20-mile diversion route to accommodate all vehicle types safely. Drivers will be directed to travel approximately three miles east towards Bourton-on-the-Water, then four miles south to Hampnett, followed by an eight-mile journey west along the A40 to Andoversford, before returning north to reconnect with the A436 beyond the closure.
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While shorter alternative routes exist, the council recommends this detour as the safest and most suitable option for all vehicles due to road classification considerations.
Pedestrian access to properties within the closed section will be maintained. However, residents who normally park on the road in the closure zone must find alternative parking during the closure hours. Any vehicles obstructing the site risk being towed to allow the work to proceed safely.
In a recent communication to local residents, the council stated: “To ensure the safety of everyone involved, a Temporary Traffic Order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 has been implemented. The closure covers a broader area than the resurfacing zone to facilitate machinery movement and material placement.”
The council acknowledges the inconvenience but emphasizes that the closure is necessary for the safety of workers and residents. They have scheduled the work to be completed promptly and during a period intended to minimize disruption.
For the latest updates on the closure, motorists can visit the Gloucestershire County Council website or follow Gloucestershire Roads on Facebook and X (@GlosRoads).