A brief, half-mile closure on Cirencester’s A417 London Road is set to cause significant travel disruptions this week. Starting Wednesday, July 1, and continuing through to Monday, July 6—excluding the weekend—resurfacing works will close the road each night from 8 pm to 7 am.
Though the closure affects only 650 meters, drivers face a substantial detour. The Highways team has established a recommended diversion stretching over 30 miles. This extensive detour routes motorists southeast into Wiltshire, passing through South Marston, then north to Lechlade-on-Thames, before returning west along the A417 to rejoin the original route beyond the closure.
While shorter alternatives may exist, Gloucestershire County Council advises following this specific diversion, as it maintains suitable road classifications and ensures safer, more reliable travel during the works.
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In an official notice, the Highways department emphasized that the road closure extends beyond the resurfacing area to accommodate equipment movement and ensure safety. They acknowledge the inconvenience but stress the necessity of these measures to protect both workers and the public.
Access to the affected stretch will be restricted to emergency vehicles, statutory undertakers during emergencies, and pedestrian access where safe footways are available. Drivers who regularly use this route during closure hours are urged to plan ahead and seek alternative arrangements.
For ongoing updates, motorists are encouraged to monitor Gloucestershire Roads on Facebook and @GlosRoads on X.