On Friday, I had the great pleasure of visiting the next phase of the major A417 upgrading scheme.
After many years of campaigning by Gloucestershire MPs, it is fantastic to see work on the A417 progressing, backed by significant Government funding.
This road is currently one of the most congested across Gloucestershire, and it was great to see first-hand how this Government’s investment will directly benefit the region – this project will reduce congestion, improve safety and have significant economic benefits, all while conserving the surrounding landscape.
We have in the last month published our long-term plan to back drivers and put the brakes on anti-car measures – the Government getting on with road schemes like the A417 is one of the many long-term decisions we are taking to keep this country moving.
The scheme will improve the connection between two dual carriageway sections of the A417 at Brockworth and Cowley, and links between the M4 and M5.
Upgrading this section of the A417 to dual carriageway, in a way that is sensitive to the surrounding Cotswolds area, will help unlock Gloucestershire’s potential for growth, support regional plans for more homes and jobs and improve life in local communities.
Having completed preliminary construction works, including archaeology and some biodiversity enhancements, the scheme will now move to the next stage of enabling works, that will see the A417 at Crickley Hill widened and a new site access works on the A436 put in place.
Once completed, main construction will begin in early 2024, which will see a new section of road built away from the current road, and earthworks at Ullenwood and Shab Hill junctions.