Drivers using the A417 Missing Link will soon start to see real progress, including the huge milestone of using the very first stretch of new road from February.
Following the installation of seven new structures and laying fresh tarmac last year, road users will start to see the benefits of work as vehicles switch over to new stretches of road, before the existing A417 is closed later this year.
The first switch will come from the 2 February, with drivers using a new section of A417 from the A46 towards the Air Balloon roundabout.
Whilst only a one lane short stretch of new road, road users coming down the A417 at the bottom of the hill will be moved left towards the A46 Junction and under the bridge.
Coming up the hill before the A46 Brockworth junction, users will follow traffic management guiding them through two narrow lanes, leaving areas where work can start in preparation for main works in spring.
The hill returns to normal as users start travelling on the incline towards Air Balloon roundabout.
Following the realignment, space created on the A417 will allow works to continue safely over the coming weeks.
Access for traffic travelling towards Cirencester via the A417, Leckhampton Hill, and the A436 will remain open via the Air Balloon roundabout, including entry to Crickley Hill Country Park.
Celine Acard, Senior Project Manager for the A417 Missing Link, said:
“The progress made on the A417 Missing Link over the past year has been truly significant, and we are delighted to now be moving road users onto a new stretch of road, albeit a small one.
“This milestone reflects the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved in delivering this vital scheme and is the first of many more milestones to come.
“As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited for people to see the progress and start to use more of the new road. The area will see major changes that will transform journeys, improve reliability, and bring long-term benefits for local communities, businesses and visitors alike.”
(Picture: National Highways)
