National Highways has announced an exciting milestone for the A417 Missing Link project in Gloucestershire. From February 2, motorists will be able to use the first new stretch of this major link road, which has been under development for almost three years.
The A417 Missing Link is a four-mile dual carriageway aimed at replacing the existing single-lane road between the Brockworth bypass and Cowley Roundabout. This project received government approval in November 2022, accompanied by a £460 million investment to enhance traffic flow and safety.
Since construction began in Spring 2023, significant progress has been made, including laying fresh tarmac and installing seven new structures. The new design features three lanes uphill and two lanes downhill, separated by a central reservation. Additionally, the steepness of the hill has been reduced from a 10% to an 8% incline, ensuring a safer and smoother drive.
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The initial phase opening next month involves a one-lane stretch from the A46 towards the Air Balloon roundabout. Drivers coming downhill on the A417 will be guided left toward the A46 Junction and underneath a new bridge. Those heading uphill near the Brockworth junction will navigate two narrow lanes under traffic management, preparing the area for further construction this spring. Beyond this, the hill’s incline remains unchanged as drivers approach the Air Balloon roundabout.
To facilitate this transition, the road will close fully for two weekends in January to complete essential drainage, curb, pavement, and central reservation work. Overnight closures for southbound traffic between the Air Balloon roundabout and The Highwayman Inn will also occur mid-January, while northbound traffic remains unaffected.
Celine Acard, Senior Project Manager for the A417 Missing Link, expressed enthusiasm about the progress: “This milestone reflects the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. It’s only the start, with many more milestones planned ahead. By 2026, we expect the area to be transformed, improving journey reliability and bringing lasting benefits to local communities, businesses, and visitors.”
Looking ahead, 2026 promises more significant changes as additional sections of the road become operational. Gavin Jones, Senior Project Manager at Kier Transportation, echoed this optimism, highlighting the impressive strides made in 2025 and the busy year to come: “With seven structures underway, we are in a strong position. Next year will see traffic introduced on new parts of the road as early as spring.”
The A417 Missing Link project marks a vital upgrade for Gloucester’s transport infrastructure, promising safer, faster, and more reliable journeys for all road users.