Multi-Million Pound Gloucestershire Cycle Path Nears Completion Amid Rising Usage

Gloucestershire’s ambitious new cycle spine, designed to connect Bishop’s Cleeve with Stroud via Cheltenham and Gloucester, has so far cost around £50 million and is already seeing strong daily usage.

The 26-mile route is currently under construction, with most sections between Gloucester and the spa town near completion. It passes through key areas such as Churchdown, with ongoing work continuing through Gloucester city centre.

Gloucestershire County Council emphasizes that this cycle path will become a vital part of the county’s active travel network. The project aligns with the council’s commitment to delivering high-quality cycling and pedestrian facilities that meet the latest design standards, enhancing connectivity and encouraging sustainable travel.

Details about the path’s cost and user statistics were revealed during a full council meeting on March 25. Reform UK Councillor Chris Mayo inquired about the total expenditure and current usage rates.

In response, Liberal Democrat Roger Whyborn, cabinet member for sustainable transport, noted that roughly half of the 26-mile spine has been completed, with significant progress made east of Gloucester towards Bishop’s Cleeve. The current investment totals approximately £50 million, primarily funded through third-party sources specifically reserved for cycling, walking, and wheeling projects—mostly from central government grants.

Cycle traffic has nearly doubled compared to pre-COVID numbers, increasing from around 200 to 400 riders per day on the Arle Court route in Cheltenham. Near Brickhampton Golf Course, cyclist numbers reach about 500 per day. Usage data is collected annually every October to provide consistent comparisons over time.

This cycling infrastructure investment reflects Gloucestershire’s broader ambition to promote healthier, greener transport options and to improve the overall quality and accessibility of active travel throughout the region.