Cabinet approves development of busy M5 junction
It's hoped the changes will ease congestion in the local area
Plans to continue the development of junction 9 on the M5, near Tewkesbury have been approved in a cabinet meeting (15th May).
The proposal includes a reconfiguration of the junction and plans to re-route the existing A46 around Ashchurch to Teddington Hands roundabout.
The changes will improve infrastructure near Ashchurch, where 10,000 homes are to be built alongside 120 hectares of employment land.
A public consultation will be launched in order to determine the best option for the junction.
In a statement Gloucestershire Council said: "The scheme will provide a more suitable alternative route for traffic, particularly long-distance heavy goods vehicles, while also improving journey times and reliability.
"It will also reduce traffic, noise and pollution for local residents and businesses and deliver other long-term environmental benefits by providing the opportunity for increased walking, cycling and public transport options."
Cllr David Gray, Cabinet Member for Environment and Planning, said: “The A46 is one of the country’s most important trade routes and a strategic link between the south-west and the Midlands.
"We know that more than half of the traffic using the existing A46 through Ashchurch during peak periods is long-distance through-traffic.
"Our proposals would provide an alternative, more suitable route for these vehicles. In turn, this will also improve traffic flow and air quality while delivering substantial economic benefits and enabling development opportunities locally and regionally."