Today (October 27) marked a milestone moment in the long history of the A417 missing link road project.

National Highways welcomed secretary of state, Mark Harper, on a site visit to celebrate next phase of the scheme.

As the next phase of construction begins on one of Gloucestershire's busiest links, transport minister and Forest of Dean MP Mark Harper was given a tour of the scheme to celebrate progress so far.

A spokesman for National Highways said: "The landscape-led scheme is on its way to delivering a safe and resilient free-flowing road, while conserving and enhancing the special character of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

"The scheme will improve the connection between two dual carriageway sections of the A417 at Brockworth and Cowley, and links between the M4 and M5."

Upgrading this section of the A417 to dual carriageway, in a way that is sensitive to the surrounding Cotswolds AONB, will help, says the Government, unlock Gloucestershire's potential for growth, support regional plans for more homes and jobs and improve life in local communities.

Read more about this evolving story in Monday's Punchline-Gloucester.com news.

Hyperlapse video credit: Paul Greenwood