Gloucester city centre will implement a one-way traffic system for four months starting June 10 to facilitate the next phase of the city’s cycle spine development. This initiative is designed to enhance walking and cycling connectivity to homes, workplaces, educational institutions, and transport hubs, aligning with the council’s goal of achieving carbon net zero by 2045.
Under the new system, westbound traffic along London Road—heading towards the Black Dog Way/Bruton Way junction and Gloucester Transport Hub/Rail Station—will be prohibited. Eastbound traffic to the hospital and the University of Gloucestershire’s Oxstalls Campus will continue uninterrupted. To effectively manage traffic, the temporary mini roundabout at London Road and Black Dog Way will remain operational.
The road’s limited width prevents the safe continuation of two-way traffic alongside ongoing work, making the one-way arrangement necessary for public and workforce safety and to expedite project completion. A clearly marked diversion will guide drivers, minimizing disruption. Westbound drivers will be redirected east on London Road, before taking Estcourt Road and Kingsholm Road to reach the Black Dog Way/Gouda Way junction or Barnwood Road, Eastern Avenue, and Metz Way to access Bruton Way. During this period, access to Alvin Street from Kingsholm Road will be restricted.
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This temporary setup is expected to last until early October 2026. The council is committed to maintaining convenient access to Gloucester Royal Hospital for visitors and staff, with additional signage planned. Coordination with the hospital and local bus companies has been undertaken to ensure smooth communication before the closure is enforced.
Cyclists heading towards the city centre will be required to dismount and use the footpath, as cycling against the new one-way flow will not be allowed during the construction period.
Detailed maps of the work zones and diversion routes are available on the county council’s project webpage under Traffic Management. The Gloucestershire Cycle Spine currently connects Bishop’s Cleeve to Gloucester, passing through Cheltenham and Churchdown.
Councillor Roger Whyborn, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport and Road Safety, acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasized the long-term benefits: “This one-way system will support the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine, making it easier and safer for people to cycle daily, reducing congestion, improving air quality, and fostering healthier, connected communities.”