Lorry drivers are voicing their frustration over the unopened Junction 1 of the M49 in Gloucestershire, a project completed nearly seven years ago at a cost of £50 million. Despite construction finishing in December 2019, the junction remains closed due to a missing 160-metre link road, which is now expected to be completed by autumn 2026.
The M49 junction was intended to provide direct access for lorries to the Western Approach Distribution Park, a major logistics hub adjacent to the motorway. However, delays have arisen from a dispute over responsibility for the construction of the connecting link road. South Gloucestershire Council and National Highways have been at odds with the landowners and developer, Delta Properties, complicating progress.
Lorry drivers report significant detours and congestion caused by the closure. David Bradbury, an HGV driver, called the delay a “complete farce” and a symptom of poor planning.
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Mark Rees, another driver, described the link road as a potential “godsend” that could eliminate long detours and reduce costly delays. Currently, heavy vehicles must use narrower alternative routes, resulting in traffic jams and extended delivery times.
Responsibility for the junction itself lies with National Highways, while South Gloucestershire Council had to coordinate with the developer for the link road. Delta Properties denies legal responsibility for building the road, further delaying progress. South Gloucestershire Council has confirmed that construction of the link road is now underway and expected to finish by the end of 2026.
National Highways expressed support for the council’s efforts and emphasized the economic and community benefits the completed junction and link road would provide.