The second phase of major changes to the road layout and traffic system in Cheltenham will open this month.

The revamp includes changing the current one-way traffic flow along Imperial Square North to a two-way system, as well as creating a new right hand turn from the Promenade junction into Imperial Square.

The county council says this will make it easier for traffic to access the Regent Arcade car park when travelling from the Gloucester direction.

Work has been underway since January; the new layout will be fully open at the end of March. Full details of the Cheltenham Transport Plan can be viewed at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/cheltenhamtp

To keep potential disruption to a minimum, essential resurfacing which has been planned as a result of wear and tear in this heavily used area, and the painting of new road markings is scheduled from 20 - 24 March, before the new scheme opens.

Resurfacing will take place from the junction of Oriel Road with Bath Road, up to where Imperial Square North meets the Promenade. Road closures will be necessary, however, a phased approach is being taken to keep access routes open.

Diversions will be signposted, but drivers are advised to check routes before travelling. Details of the resurfacing works are available on the county council's website www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/roadworks

Closure times are as follows:

• Monday 20 and Wednesday 22 March - Oriel Road closed, with access to Regent Arcade via Imperial Square North.

• Tuesday 21, Thursday 23 and Friday 24 March - Imperial Square North closed, access to Regent Arcade via Oriel Road (except HGVs).

Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the resurfacing. The county council is working with the borough council to provide alternative parking options for people who live and work on the roads directly affected by the road closures.

Cllr Vernon Smith, Gloucestershire county council's cabinet member for highways and flood said: "Drivers are advised to check routes before they travel. I would like to thank road users for their patience while this work is carried out."

Cllr Steve Jordan, leader at Cheltenham Borough Council said: "I am pleased that we are now moving towards the end of phase two of Cheltenham's Transport Plan and that the work has gone smoothly.

"The road improvements have been carried out in stages so that motorists can get used to the changes and settle into the new travel patterns. We're making sure that the effect of the changes for local people are being monitored at every stage."

Illustration: Gloucestershire County Council