First mile of flagship B4063 cycle route is built

The first mile of the flagship walking and cycling route on the B4063 between Gloucester and Cheltenham has now been built.

Work on the second section of the traffic-free route, from Pheasant Lane to Arle Court roundabout, has now been completed by contractors Colas.

It comes after the first section from the M5 overbridge to Pheasant Lane was completed by Knights Brown last year – meaning that one mile of the path is now able to be used by walkers and cyclists.

To mark the opening, representatives from walking and cycling charity and key partner Sustrans joined members of the council’s highways department to ride the route. This enabled everyone involved to see the positive effect of this scheme and mark the major milestone of the completion of the first mile.

The completion of these sections, stretching from Arle Court to the M5 overbridge at Staverton, will help to relieve traffic congestion that residents have been experiencing while roadworks have been carried out.

This is the first mile of a six-mile active travel route along the B4063, providing a continuous off-road route from Cheltenham to Gloucester for walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities. The route will help to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions while encouraging more active travel. The route from Cheltenham to Gloucester will also form part of the wider 26-mile cycle spine linking Stroud and Bishop’s Cleeve.

This first mile of cycleway along the B4063 is in addition to the cycle route recently installed along the A40 as part of the West Cheltenham Transport Improvement Scheme.

Work on the third and fourth sections, from the M5 overbridge to Brickhampton Golf Course and Brickhampton Golf Course to Elmbridge Court roundabout, is continuing to make progress.

As part of the scheme a speed restriction of 30mph remains in place.

Cllr David Gray, cabinet member for environment and planning, said: “It’s great news that the first mile of this new walking and cycling route has now been built and can be used.

“It shows we are making real progress in delivering this project, which will lead to significant improvements in our walking and cycling infrastructure, while reducing carbon emissions and improving public health.

“We would like to thank residents and road users for their continued patience while work on the other sections continues.”

Sarah Leeming, Director for south of England at Sustrans, said: “I’m so pleased to see this project progressing. It forms part of our ongoing Paths for Everyone programme to enhance the National Cycle Network, supported by the Department for Transport.

“Providing more space for walking, wheeling and cycling will go a long way to helping people to leave the car at home, and opt for an active commute or trip to nearby amenities.

“I look forward to the rest of the route coming to fruition, and to seeing people out enjoying this newly improved route.”

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