Stunning new aerial footage recently captured the progress of the A417 Missing Link in Gloucestershire, illustrating the scale of this transformative roadworks project as it hits a critical landmark.
Filmed on June 29 from a private aircraft piloted by Andy Clarke, also known as The Phobic Flyer, the video reveals the newly constructed two-mile section set to become a permanent part of the upgraded A417 route. This stretch opens to traffic from 6 a.m. on Monday, July 6. Upon opening, the existing A417 between Air Balloon and the B4070 will close permanently, paving the way for its future use by pedestrians and cyclists.
Andy Clarke has been documenting the project regularly from the sky, capturing the evolving landscape and progress of the Missing Link. He observes mixed public opinion about the development: some critics complain about its environmental impact and expense, while many everyday users welcome the improvement for reducing traffic congestion on this vital route connecting the M5 and M4 motorways through Swindon.
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“People who frequently use the road really support it because they understand the challenges of a single carriageway on such an important route,” Andy explains. “Now they’ll notice a real difference—a win-win for commuters.”
Andy plans to record the traffic shift live Monday evening to reveal how the new road operates under real conditions, hoping favorable weather will accompany the filming.
This weekend saw part of the existing road network closed to allow the transition, with traffic now rerouted from the old carriageway onto the new alignment running from the Ullenwood junction near Leckhampton Hill and A436. National Highways warns drivers to expect a different experience, including narrower lanes and a 40 mph speed limit as they pass beneath the newly completed green bridge and travel through the Shab Valley interchange.
The opening marks a temporary arrangement expected to last at least five weeks, during which further summer closures on the A417 and A436 will be announced as needed.
This partial launch signifies a major step forward in unlocking the Missing Link and modernizing this crucial stretch of Gloucestershire’s road network for safer, smoother travel.