Motorists near Cirencester face a significant 30-mile diversion as essential resurfacing work is carried out on a brief stretch of the B4425. The road will be closed for nine days to upgrade the carriageway, significantly impacting local traffic.
The closures will affect a two-mile section of the B4425 near The Pig countryside hotel in the Cotswolds, as well as an adjoining unnamed one-mile road linking Welsh Way to Roman Road. These works are scheduled to commence on Friday, 25 September, and continue through until Wednesday, 7 October, operating daily from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Notably, the roads will remain open on weekends.
Despite the short physical length of the closures, Gloucestershire County Council’s Highways team has designated a diversion route spanning approximately 30 miles. This route has been selected to accommodate all classes of vehicles safely. It begins at the junction of Sheephouse Lane and the B4425, proceeding west onto Stow Road, then north-east along the A429 Stow Road to Northleach. From there, it continues east along the A40 to Upton before turning south along the B4425 through Aldsworth and Arlington, reconnecting with the road beyond the closure.
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Drivers can anticipate journey times increasing by up to 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Although shorter alternative routes may exist, the recommended detour is advised for safety and suitability across all vehicle types.
In a letter distributed to local residents, the Highways team explained the necessity of the closure under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, citing safety concerns for both the public and workers. They acknowledged the inconvenience caused but emphasised that the scheduling aims to minimise disruption.
The letter further stated that during closure hours, access along the closed roads will be prohibited except for pedestrian access where footways are available, emergency vehicles, and statutory undertakers responding to emergencies. It urged those who ordinarily travel in or out of the area during working hours to find alternative arrangements.
Residents and drivers are advised to plan journeys accordingly and allow extra time during the resurfacing period.