Flood Risk Concerns Raised Over New £40m Gloucester City Cycle Path

A newly installed £40 million cycle path in Gloucester city centre is raising serious concerns about flooding risks due to insufficient drainage. The cycle route, part of a 26-mile multi-million-pound spine connecting Bishop’s Cleeve to Stroud via Cheltenham and Gloucester, has encountered issues near the crossing on Kimbrose Way where water pools after even light rain.

Councillor Rebecca Trimnell (LD, Hempsted and Westgate) expressed astonishment that proper drainage measures were not incorporated during construction. She highlighted the significant accumulation of water at the pedestrian crossing after only a drizzle and warned that the issue might delay the reopening of the crossing, long awaited by pedestrians who have endured ongoing disruption.

“I had presumed the pedestrian crossing was to reopen at the end of October,” Councillor Trimnell said, “but this drainage problem could push back completion. It’s frustrating that this should have been foreseen and addressed before work began.”

Highways cabinet member Joe Harris (LD, Cirencester Park) confirmed the council is aware of the problem and that contractors are investigating the cause to implement a fix. He encouraged local representatives to communicate issues directly to the council for swift resolution, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to high-quality infrastructure supporting active travel throughout the county.

“We follow rigorous quality assurance procedures on all highway projects to catch any issues before completion,” Harris explained. “Despite this snag, progress continues on delivering infrastructure that encourages walking, cycling, and wheeling as healthy, convenient travel options.”

The drainage concerns at Kimbrose Way serve as a reminder of the crucial role thorough planning and site management play in large-scale public infrastructure projects—especially those aimed at improving urban mobility and sustainability.