One-Way Traffic System Introduced in Gloucester City Centre for Four Months

Gloucester city centre will adopt a temporary one-way traffic system for four months to facilitate the safe and efficient progression of the next phase of the Gloucester cycle spine project. This initiative focuses on improving walking and cycling routes to key destinations such as homes, workplaces, educational institutions, and transport hubs, aligning with the council’s goal of achieving carbon net zero by 2045.

Starting Wednesday, June 10, westbound traffic along London Road towards the Black Dog Way/Bruton Way junction and Gloucester Transport Hub will be prohibited. Eastbound travel towards Gloucester Royal Hospital and the University of Gloucestershire’s Oxstalls Campus will remain unaffected.

To manage traffic flow during construction, the temporary mini roundabout at London Road and Black Dog Way will remain operational. Due to the narrow road width, maintaining two-way traffic safely alongside construction is unfeasible. This one-way system not only ensures the safety of the public and workers but also enables quicker completion of the work.

Motorists will be guided by a well-marked diversion route to reduce disruption. Vehicles will be diverted eastward on London Road before taking Estcourt Road and Kingsholm Road to reach the Black Dog Way/Gouda Way junction. An alternative path will direct traffic east on London Road, then along Barnwood Road, Eastern Avenue, and Metz Way to access Bruton Way. Access to Alvin Street from Kingsholm Road will be closed during this period.

This temporary traffic arrangement is expected to remain until early October 2026. The council is committed to maintaining clear access to Gloucester Royal Hospital for patients and staff and plans to introduce additional signage to assist visitors.

Collaboration with the hospital and bus services has ensured that all stakeholders are informed prior to the closure. Cyclists heading towards the city centre will need to dismount and use the footpath, as cycling against the designated traffic flow is not allowed during this time.

The Gloucestershire Cycle Spine currently connects Bishop’s Cleeve to Gloucester, passing through Cheltenham and Churchdown, promoting sustainable travel options.

Cllr Roger Whyborn, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport and Road Safety, stated: “While we acknowledge that the one-way system may cause temporary inconvenience, it is a crucial step towards creating safer and more accessible cycling routes. This project will reduce congestion, enhance air quality, and support healthier, more connected communities.”