Highways England has today (13th October) launched a consultation on its updated designs for the A417 'missing link'.

The planned upgrade of the A417, a key route linking the South West and Midlands, will see a single lane stretch of carriageway between the Brockworth bypass and Cowley roundabout upgraded to dual carriageway, for the benefit of road users, local communities and businesses.

Michael Goddard, senior project manager for the A417 scheme, said: "As a result of your feedback, we've made some improvements to our proposals which, will benefit local connectivity and accessibility and reduce the scheme's impact on communities, the environment and the local landscape. As part of the planning process, we're required to consult on our proposed design."

Cllr Joe Harris, leader of Cotswold District Council, said: "This is the biggest infrastructure project our area has seen in a generation. It's important you have your say to help shape the scheme."

Baroness Vere, transport minister, said: "The proposed upgrades to the A417 will benefit all road users in Gloucestershire by boosting capacity, cutting congestion and improving connectivity between local economies. Highways England is keen to hear residents' feedback on the changes and is committed to getting the project underway as swiftly as possible."

The supplementary statutory consultation runs from 13th October to 12th November, with feedback helping Highways England develop its application for a Development Consent Order to be submitted early next year.

You can find out more about the proposals and have your say at Highways England's online exhibition http://www.highwaysengland.co.uk/a417-missing-link  

Highways England is holding five live question and answer events, focusing on different topics:

• Safety, traffic and engineering Q&A, Monday 19 October, 9.30 - 11am
• Landscape, wildlife and habitats Q&A, Tuesday 20 October, 9.30 - 11am
• Local access and public rights of way Q&A, Wednesday 21 October, 9.30 - 11am
• Land, property, business and tourism Q&A, Thursday 22 October, 9.30 - 11am
• Looking ahead; submission, examination and construction Q&A, Friday 23 October, 9.30 - 11am

There are also dedicated times throughout the consultation period when you can chat or video call with members of the project team, who will be happy to answer questions.