Plan your journeys around A38 closure

Motorists are being reminded that the A38 bridge near Berkeley will be closed next week while essential repairs are carried out.

In 2013, the northbound Berkeley bridge on the A38 was found to be weak so a 30mph speed restriction was put in place to reduce pressure on the structure.

The first phase of the major scheme to repair it started a few weeks ago.

The whole project, costing nearly £2.5million, includes completely replacing the bridge over the railway track near the Prince of Wales Hotel.

Since work started temporary traffic lights have been in place to manage traffic using the busy commuter route and it has been working well.

However, workers on site have discovered that there is additional preparation work needed to be done before the old bridge can be removed.

From 6^th September to 15^th September the road will still be completely closed so workers and machinery can get full access to the site and ensure that the additional preparation work is complete.

The project, which is being carried out with the  support of Network Rail, is planned to be completed in two stages.

The first phase will still finish by Friday 11^th November as planned when the temporary traffic lights will be removed.

Network Rail will need to close the railway line during phase two, which is likely to take place early next year and this will also mean a full road closure on the A38.

Dates will be confirmed closer to the time.

Scott Tompkins, lead commissioner for highways, said: “This is a major project involving a live railway line so it’s no surprise that there’s more to be done than originally planned.

“I’m pleased that we’re on track to complete phase one on schedule and I want to thank drivers again for their patience.

“We will be working closely with Network Rail now to ensure the entire scheme is completed as soon as possible.”

Road users are being asked to allow extra time for the journeys and to plan their journeys in advance, as traffic is likely to be heavier on local roads.

During the ten day full closure a diversion will be in place via the A38 to Patchway, the A4174, the A432 past Yate, the A46 and the A4135 past Dursley, and vice versa.

The county council appreciates that the diversions are long but legally must publicise an alternative route using equivalent A roads.

People living locally, driving cars and small vans are welcome to use other alternative routes that they are aware of.

The popular Frampton Country Fair takes place on 11th September during the planned full road closure. Visitors to the fair are advised to plan their route in advance and allow extra time for their journey.

For enquiries, members of the pubic should please email GCCcontactcentre@amey.co.uk or call 08000 514514.

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk