One of Cheltenham's busiest roads is set to close for the whole summer.

Evesham Road will be closed between Cheltenham Racecourse roundabout and the Hyde Lane/ Southam Lane junction from June 2 to September 8.

The closure is to allow the final phase of construction work on the A435 Cycleway route to connect Bishop's Cleeve with Cheltenham.

Gloucestershire County Council said the scheme will deliver significant cycling and walking improvements along the A435 Evesham Road. It will provide full access to the 26-mile Gloucestershire Cycle Spine, which will run between Bishop's Cleeve, Cheltenham and Gloucester and will ultimately extend as far as Stroud.

As part of the final phase of the scheme, essential repairs will be carried out on the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) bridge to address defects highlighted in a recent inspection and ensure its long-term stability.

The works include strengthening the structure, reconstructing the carriageway and repositioning the road to incorporate a new shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.

The full road closure will provide the required working space, prevent damage to the structure of the bridge and protect the safety of construction workers and the public.

Section 1 of the cycle scheme, between the Honeybourne Line and Cheltenham Racecourse roundabout, was successfully completed at the end of 2024. The first phase of Section 2, between the GWSR Bridge and the GE roundabout in Bishop's Cleeve, began in early January and is expected to finish in the autumn.

Contractor Montel Civil Engineering Ltd has been awarded the contract to build the final section of the cycleway, from Cheltenham Racecourse roundabout to the GWSR bridge, and to carry out the essential bridge repairs at the same time. Work is due to start on Monday, May 19 and is expected to be finished by the end of January.

Following the full road closure, there will also be a northbound only closure of Evesham Road from September 8 to October 31.

During the full road closure and northbound closure periods, clearly signed diversion routes will be in place to guide road users safely around the works. Road users are advised to plan their journeys in advance and follow the diversion signs carefully.

Ahead of the closure, a meet the contractor event will be held on Thursday, May 8 between 10am and 7pm at Cheltenham Tigers Rugby Club in Southam Lane.

This will provide an opportunity to learn more about the construction work, meet the project teams and ask any questions related to construction activities.