A busy route for commuters, shoppers and school goers in Cheltenham is gearing up for an enhancement

As part of the county council's drive to promote accessibility and sustainable travel, Up Hatherley Way will undergo a five-week cycle improvement scheme to convert the existing footway into a combined cycleway and footpath.

The new combined facility will run alongside Up Hatherley Way, Cheltenham. To facilitate this upgrade, the footpath will be widened between Cold Pool Lane and Chargrove Lane.

Work to improve the route starts on 26th February and is due to be complete by 30th March 2018.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood said: "We are continuing to make good on our £150 million investment plan for the county's vital road network. Upgrading this important route, and in particular making these improvements for cyclists, is essential to encourage sustainable travel options and keep the county moving.

"I'd like to thank road users, local residents and businesses in advance for their patience during this work. We will limit the disruption as much as possible."

Cllr Simon Wheeler, county councillor for Benhall and Up Hatherley said: "As well as making the road safer, this scheme is making cycling and walking a more enjoyable option. I'm delighted that the work will soon be completed and look forward to this area becoming more accessible."

In addition to the upgraded cycleway, the scheme will make signage and junction improvements to the existing footway between Chargrove Lane and Caernarvon Road to enable a cycle path on the footway as well as improve pedestrian access and safety.

Teams will be working in sections using temporary traffic lights 24/7 throughout the scheme for the safety of the workforce and the public. Road users are asked to plan extra time for their journeys due to expected delays.

Removal of the existing grass verge along the road between Cold Pool Lane and Chargrove Lane is required so the pavement can be widened.

During the works the footway will be CLOSED between the Cold Pool Lane roundabout and Chargrove Lane and a pedestrian diversion will be in place.

Pedestrian diversion:

Starting from Hatherley Road, turn right into The Oaks and at the end of the cul-de-sac continue along the footpath that links The Oaks with Sedgewick Gardens. From there turn right and then left onto the footpath between Sedgewick Gardens and Manor Park, then turn right at Chargrove Lane to re-join Up Hatherley Way. The route is the same in reverse.