Project Overview
Kier has been awarded a £460-million contract by National Highways to deliver the eagerly anticipated A417 "missing link" project near Birdlip. The completion of this project is expected to enhance safety and air quality, ensure more dependable journey times, and yield significant economic benefits for the county. Additionally, it will create new habitats and connections for local wildlife.
The proposed enhancements include:
A new 3.4-mile (5.4km) dual carriageway.
To the west of the Air Balloon roundabout, the new section will align with the current A417 corridor, while to the south and east, it will diverge from the existing road.
A new junction at Shab Hill to connect the A417 with the A436 towards Oxford and Birdlip.
A new junction near Cowley to replace the current Cowley roundabout.
The current A417 stretch between the Air Balloon and Cowley roundabouts will be repurposed, with parts transformed into paths for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, and other sections maintained for local resident access.
Itinerary
- 16:00 - Arrive on site, Introductions and refreshments
- 16:20 – Presentation of the A417 Missing Link
- 17:00 – Short break and Visitors Induction
- 17:15 – Exclusion zone for all to look at Gloucestershire Way Crossing build/ photo opportunity
- 17:45 – Q&A’s
- 18:00 - Close
Directions
Shab Valley Site compound, Birdlip, GL4 8JX
(What three words) - wiring.estuaries.fully
To reach the Site from the A417, take the B4070 (signposted ‘Stroud’ and ‘Birdlip’). After approximately 150 metres take the unclassified road to the Barrow Wake viewpoint and car park, turning right to pass back under the A417, continuing straight on for a further half mile to Acorn House (formally, McCarthy-Taylor Systems), which will be on your right.
Please do not stop at Acorn House.
Go through the traffic lights and take an immediate left to our site compound.
A gates person will be at the entrance to advise you if needed.
Site restrictions must be adhered to, which is 10mph.
Please Reverse Park.
The car park is in front of you and the long building towards the back of the car park is our location for the visit.
ACCESS: The building is wheelchair accessible.
TOILETS: To use the toilets, please inform a Kier staff member who will provide access to the Main Office.
Members can gain 2 CIOB CPD points if you reflect on your learning from this activity.
*PPE*
Please dress appropriately according to the weather conditions.
You will not require PPE.
Fees
CIOB Member free of charge, all other attendees £25
Contact
Natalie Breakspear
Member Services and Events Coordinator - Bristol Hub
+44 (0) 1344 630834
Nbreakspear@ciob.org.uk
