A40 Over Bridge frequently asked questions

Why is this work happening now?

The bridge is showing signs of wear and deterioration. Repairing it now helps prevent:

• frequent emergency closures
• temporary repairs
• future speed or weight restrictions

Acting now helps keep the road safer and avoids more disruption later.

Why will the work take so long?

We’ll work six days a week and have carefully planned the project in stages to be as efficient as possible.

The work is complex because:

• the road must stay open during construction
• we need to keep both road users and workers safe
• some work is happening above and below the bridge

We’ve also scheduled activities to avoid major local events like the Cheltenham Festival and school exam periods.

Why aren’t you working 7 days a week?

We looked at this option, but it wouldn’t shorten the project overall.

Because of staff working patterns, a 7 day schedule would still average out to the same as a 6 day week. So it wouldn’t speed things up.

Could the work be completed faster if the road was closed?

Yes, it would be quicker—but this isn’t practical.

There’s no suitable alternative route, so keeping the road open helps reduce disruption for:

• commuters
• residents
• local businesses

Will there be any full closures of the A40?

We'll need some full overnight closures during the mobilisation, mid-point and demobilisation of works.

We currently expect up to 7 overnight closures between June 2026 and March 2027. Closures will be no more than two consecutive nights at any one time.

As with all construction projects, plans may change. However, we'll do our best to keep any additional closures to a minimum.

We will provide advance notice of closures closer to the time.

Why can’t you use tidal traffic flow like at Walham Viaduct?

Tidal flow requires closing the road twice a day to safely change traffic layouts.

At this location, there isn’t a suitable alternative route to divert traffic during those closures, so this option isn’t feasible.

Will you provide temporary traffic lights at Over roundabout to help with congestion?

We've considered using temporary traffic lights at Over Roundabout.

However, they're not expected to improve traffic flow at this time.

We'll continue to monitor traffic conditions throughout the project and will introduce traffic lights if needed.

Why is there only one lane when no work is visible?

Some work is happening underneath the bridge where it’s not visible.

When concrete is setting, we must reduce vibrations from traffic above.

This means limiting vehicles and certain activities to ensure the repairs are done properly and safely.

Why are you doing this again when work was done 18 years ago?

This isn't a repeat of previous work.  

In 2008, we undertook a major project to widen the A40 between the B4215 junction and the A40/A417 Over Roundabout in Gloucestershire.

The works were designed to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly for commuters, by increasing capacity through widening the A40 between Highnam and the Over roundabout.

The project included the provision of a new bus lane on the A40 Highnam to Over link. 

Will traffic restrictions be removed during holidays or Christmas?

No.

Traffic management will stay in place throughout the project.

Removing and reinstalling it would be unsafe and delay completion.

We'll continue working during summer holidays (excluding Sundays and bank holidays).

Have you coordinated this with other roadworks in the area?

Yes.

We’ve worked with Gloucestershire County Council to plan this project alongside other schemes in the area and minimise overall disruption.

Will I still be able to access my home or business?

Yes —  we'll maintain access throughout the project.

However:

• some right turns may be restricted
• short diversions via nearby roundabouts may be required.

Will businesses receive compensation?

We understand roadworks can affect businesses.

However, under the Highways Act 1980, there is no legal entitlement to compensation for:

• loss of passing trade
• disruption or inconvenience

What happens if a vehicle breaks down in the works area?

We’ll have CCTV monitoring and a 24/7 free recovery service to keep traffic moving safely.

Will the work be noisy?

Some noise is unavoidable.However

• most work will take place during daytime hours
• measures will be in place to reduce noise where possible.

We're working with Tewkesbury Borough Council to ensure  appropriate measures are in place to manage and reduce noise as much as possible.