Funding improvements to junction 9 of the M5 motorway is about more than just easing local traffic—it’s a crucial step toward unlocking Gloucestershire’s economic potential. Tewkesbury Borough Council leader Richard Stanley emphasizes that this infrastructure upgrade will support sustainable growth, new jobs, and housing developments across the county.
Plans include constructing a new junction 9a south of Tewkesbury alongside rerouting a section of the A46 between the M5 and the Teddington Hands roundabout. This project, previously estimated between £740 million and £930 million in 2024, will facilitate the development of up to 25,000 homes as part of the Tewkesbury Garden Communities initiative.
Councillor Stanley highlights the broader significance: “This scheme is about unlocking Gloucestershire’s future. Improving M5 Junction 9 and the A46 goes beyond easing traffic—it provides the infrastructure needed to support new homes, jobs, and sustainable growth for decades.”
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The county’s growth corridor stretches from Tewkesbury through Cheltenham, Gloucester, and Stroud, with connectivity vital to attracting investment and creating thousands of high-quality jobs in advanced engineering, aerospace, cyber, and digital sectors. Stanley points out that every £1 invested is expected to yield at least £7 in economic growth, generating a total of £7 billion.
Although decisions on funding remain pending amid government shifts and potential budget reallocations toward defense spending, Stanley urges continuous advocacy for the project, underscoring its importance to Gloucestershire’s future prosperity.
The Department for Transport has indicated it may explore limited cuts to uncommitted road funding but remains committed to maintaining investment in local road repairs and rail infrastructure.