As part of the major A417 Missing LInk project in Gloucestershire alongside its main contractor Kier, National Highways is continuing its environmental work and building on the 17,000 trees planted in 2025.
Landscaping work has seen the planting a mixture of trees and shrubs, including Oaks, Holly, Field Maple, Hawthorn and Yew, which are native species that all blend with the Cotswolds’ Natural Landscape.
These will help to hide the road from the surrounding area and replacing what has been removed for construction.
Calcareous grassland areas have also started to be created across the scheme with more to come in the coming months.
Further planting will take place up until April, before planting continues in the autumn, in total a whopping 130,000 trees and shrubs will be planted across the scheme by the time it is completed.
This works coincides with the environmental work across the project, which has seen biochar trials, animal protection, the UK’s largest green bridge and 7kms of drystone walling.
Celine Acard, Senior Project Manager for the A417 Missing Link, said:
“We take our environmental responsibilities very seriously, especially on the Missing Link, which flows through a National Landscape.
“Tree planting and green spaces are a key part of our commitments – we’re working to plant 130,000 trees throughout the scheme’s construction, helping to support the environment, boost biodiversity and benefit the communities we serve.
“We are constantly reviewing the success of our tree planting schemes and will continue to monitor and adapt our practices to respond to a rapidly changing climate and meet the challenges that brings.”
Natasha James, Senior Ecologist for Kier, added:
“We’re creating a more sustainable future by implementing nature-positive initiatives that enhance biodiversity. The work on the Missing Link is a testament to that commitment and it’s great to see a major project taking such care of the environment.
“Tree planting is one of many environmental benefits of the A417 Missing Link scheme and will help to improve the connectivity and habitats across the Cotswold escarpment. Great c
(Picture: National Highways)
