New road layout as A417 'missing link' work continues

Once finished, the project will see a three-mile (4.8km) dual carriageway linking Gloucester and Cirencester

Drivers on a major road will need to follow a new road layout from next month as the A417 Missing Link scheme continues to move forward.

Temporary changes will be made to the road layout around the Nettleton Bottom and Cowley roundabout to allow for the next stages of works by National Highways.

It is hoped the £460m scheme will improve traffic to Swindon and Cirencester from Gloucester, with eight lanes of traffic forming the finished project.

Road users can expect to see the new contraflow in place from 1 July. There will be narrow lanes and a reduced speed limit of 40mph.

The new road is expected to be completed and open by 2027

National Highways said preparations for the new contraflow, including the installation of CCTV speed cameras, will start week commencing 17 June.

The following week, from 24 June, will see the installation of the contraflow, signage alignments and new road markings.

The work will be carried out under full overnight closures from 21:00 BST to 06:00 BST, Monday to Friday.

Access for emergency services and residents will be maintained throughout the closures, with all diversion routes approved by Gloucestershire County Council.