Drivers on the A46 Shurdington Road experienced a welcome relief this past weekend as the frustrating three-way traffic lights were removed and a new roundabout became fully operational. This key improvement on the stretch near Warden Hill and Leckhampton allowed two-way traffic flow to resume on Sunday, although two-way signals remain in place on Kidnappers Lane for the time being.
For the past four months, motorists and bus passengers endured significant delays caused by the traffic lights at the Shurdington Road and Kidnappers Lane junctions. These disruptions stemmed from roadworks linked to the construction of 350 new homes on a former pig field site, part of the larger Miller Homes Greenway Chase development.
The traffic lights caused congestion not only on Shurdington Road but also on adjacent roads, as drivers sought alternative routes during peak hours. While the relief is welcomed, the roadworks are not yet fully complete. Gloucestershire County Council has announced overnight closures from 7pm to 7am between December 8 and December 20 to carry out final surfacing and roundabout remedial work.
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Social media reactions to the road reopening were mixed. Some drivers humorously expressed nostalgic feelings about the persistent traffic lights, while others lamented the loss of green fields replaced by new homes. However, positive responses such as “Hooray!” and “Great news” also appeared, reflecting the general satisfaction with improved traffic flow.
The current work is focused on creating two new entrances to the Miller Homes development, including the roundabout near Kidnappers Lane and another entrance near Moorend Park Road. Miller Homes has emphasized their commitment to completing the project by March 2026, ensuring all safety standards are met.
“We appreciate the community’s patience throughout the roadworks,” a Miller Homes spokesperson said. “These improvements will bring long-lasting traffic benefits for everyone traveling through the A46. We aim to complete the project as quickly as possible for the benefit of Leckhampton residents and visitors.”
Homes in the Greenway Chase development range from £399,950 to £885,000, with some properties available immediately and others set for completion by December 2026.