Council cutting red tape to fix Gloucestershire’s roads faster

09.09.2025

Gloucestershire County Council is changing the way it delivers major road and infrastructure projects, making it quicker and easier to get work underway.

At the moment, every big project has to go through a lengthy bidding process before contractors can be appointed. The new system will line up a group of trusted contractors in advance, ready to start work when needed. This will cut down on delays, reduce costs and make sure residents see improvements on the ground sooner.

The contractors will be chosen for their track record, value for money and the positive impact they bring to local communities.

There will be two groups: one covering general road schemes such as resurfacing and junction upgrades and another covering specialist projects such as bridges, drainage and land stabilisation.

Since 2021, the council has already invested more than £45 million in major schemes, including:

• The B4063 Gloucester to Cheltenham Cycleway, improving safety for cyclists and walkers
• The widening of Llanthony Road in Gloucester, cutting congestion and improving journeys
• The restoration of Tintern Wireworks Bridge, protecting a historic structure for the future

Over the next four years, the council plans to deliver even more, including the 26-mile Gloucestershire Cycle Spine linking towns across the county.

Cllr Joe Harris, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This is about cutting red tape and getting on with the job. People want smoother roads, safer junctions and stronger bridges – not delays and excuses. By lining up trusted contractors now, we can crack on with the big projects that will really make a difference. We’re serious about making Gloucestershire’s roads great again and this one of the ways we’ll do it.”

The new arrangements are due to launch in autumn 2025, with the first projects expected to begin in early 2026.

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