Drivers are being warned of upcoming road closures as roadworks continue on the development of a so-called "green bridge" which aims to protect biodiversity and local wildlife.
National Highways has announced that it has started lifting 10 steel beams to create the base of a new environmental bridge as part of the A417 Missing Link project.
It will improve the connection between two dual carriageway sections of the A417 at Brockworth and Cowley in Gloucestershire.
The project is estimated to cost between £250million and £500million, with drivers expected to see the development completed in 2027.
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Estimates from National Highways suggest the A417 Missing Link project could cost £500million
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The new bridge will span 60 metres across eight lanes of new dual carriageway, with the aim of boosting connectivity for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and the local wildlife.
As part of the work, the A417 will be closed between the A46 Brockworth junction and the Air Balloon roundabout on three separate occasions in June and July.
It will close from 9pm on Saturday, June 21, until 6am on Monday, June 23, and overnight from Sunday, June 29, to Friday, July 4, between 9pm and 6am.
The final closure of the A417 on this stretch of the road will be from 11pm on Friday, July 4, until Monday, July 7 at 6am.
The A417 will be closed several times over the coming month for resurfacing and other road works to take place
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
National Highways stated that it would be resurfacing the road, as well as painting white lines and installing vehicle restraint systems.
Access will remain open for emergency services, as well as between the A417, Leckhampton Hill, and the A436 via the Air Balloon Roundabout, allowing motorists to enter Crickley Hill Country Park.
Commenting on the development of the new green bridge, Steve Foxley, National Highways' Project Director for the A417 Missing Link, said the organisation was "really proud" of the work being undertaken.
The A417 Missing Link project is set to be the fifth green bridge developed by National Highways, while being the first in Gloucestershire.
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Foxley added: "Along with other measures, this bridge is a testament to how we can integrate world-class environmental practices alongside vital transport improvements.
"From wildlife crossings to new habitats, we've taken great care to ensure that our work respects and enhances the stunning Cotswold landscape."
Natasha James, senior ecologist at Kier, noted that the development has a "responsibility to ensure that we are leaving a positive legacy and delivering ecological and environmental benefits" for the area.
She said: "It's incredible to see the beams lifted into place for what will become a valuable habitat feature for many species, whilst also just being great for the landscape and ecology of the scheme."
The development of Gloucestershire Way is expected to be completed in 2027
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Diversion routes for the closure of the A417 over the next two months
Southbound diversion - Brockworth junction to Air Balloon roundabout
- Turn left towards Cheltenham onto the A46 Shurdington Road
- Turn right towards Oxford onto the A40 Thirlestaine Road
- Turn right towards Cirencester onto the A40 Old Bath Road
- Turn right towards Cirencester on the A435
- Turn right on the Seven Springs roundabout onto the A436
- Continue towards Cirencester on the A417
- Turn left towards Cirencester onto the A417
Northbound diversion - Air Balloon roundabout to Brockworth junction
- Turn right at the Air Balloon Roundabout, follow the A436 towards Seven Springs
- From Seven Springs roundabout, follow Cirencester Road towards Cheltenham
- Continue on the A435 and turn left towards Cheltenham onto the A40
- Turn left onto the A40 Old Bath Road
- Follow the road to the right and remain on the A40
- Turn left onto the A46 Shurdington Road
- Take the third turning at Brockworth junction to travel towards Gloucester
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