Later this month, motorists will get their first opportunity to drive along a newly constructed two-mile section of the A417 ‘missing link’ dual carriageway. This marks a significant step forward in the eagerly anticipated upgrade project.
The transition onto the new road will take place after a planned weekend closure from 8pm on Friday, June 26, to 6am on Monday, June 29. This closure will impact the stretch from the A436 and A46 Brockworth junction to the Air Balloon roundabout.
After the weekend works, traffic will be routed onto this state-of-the-art section of the upgraded A417. This change will lead to the permanent closure of the original A417 between the former Air Balloon site and the B4070 Birdlip turning. This old stretch will be transformed into a space dedicated to non-motorised users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
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Celine Acard, National Highways senior project manager for the A417 Missing Link scheme, commented: “The progress achieved so far highlights the dedication and teamwork of everyone involved. This milestone brings us closer to completing a scheme that will revolutionise journeys by improving reliability, safety, and delivering lasting benefits for local communities, businesses, and visitors.”
Motorists should be aware that as traffic shifts to the new route, the driving experience will differ — featuring narrower lanes and a 40mph speed limit. Drivers will navigate the road through the new Shab Valley interchange and under the eco-friendly green bridge, beginning at the Ullenwood junction where Leckhampton Hill and the A436 intersect.
This temporary traffic arrangement will remain in effect for at least five weeks. Further closures along the A417 and A436 are expected in July, with details to be announced in due course.
To help plan journeys, official diversion routes and walking paths will be provided, with ongoing updates available via the A417 Missing Link project webpage. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, expect possible delays, and consider alternative routes especially during peak travel times.