Motorists in Gloucestershire should prepare for weekend disruptions as a major section of the A417 at Crickley Hill will be completely closed to allow critical work on the ongoing Missing Link project. National Highways has confirmed the closure will take place from 11pm Friday, May 30 until 6am Monday, June 2.
The affected stretch runs from the A46 Brockworth junction to the Air Balloon roundabout near Birdlip. During this period, drivers must follow an official 10-mile diversion route, clearly signposted to ensure smooth traffic flow. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid relying on Sat-Nav systems as these may not account for the temporary changes.
The Missing Link project, valued at £460 million, is a large-scale road improvement scheme targeting safer and more efficient travel, with expected completion in spring 2027. This ambitious scheme has already involved the demolition of the iconic Air Balloon pub, the introduction of temporary contraflow systems, mini-roundabouts, and several road closures.
In a letter to local residents, National Highways explained: “The closure is necessary to remove and reinstate kerbs and verges, install drainage, and carry out resurfacing work. While these activities may generate some noise visible from nearby homes, we apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
Importantly, access at the Air Balloon Roundabout between the A417, Leckhampton Hill, and the A436 will remain open throughout the closure, ensuring entry to Crickley Hill Country Park is unaffected.
Drivers traveling northbound will be directed along the Brockworth junction to Air Balloon roundabout diversion route, with the reverse route for southbound traffic.