Decision details

To allow Gloucestershire Highways to Dedicate a section of Cheltenham Borough Councils land, consisting of a verge along a section of the A40 (Gloucester Road) to facilitate a cycle path.

The verges will remain in Cheltenham Borough Councils ownership, but the dedication will allow County Highways to facilitate and maintain these sections of land to Highways standards.

Gloucestershire County Council has been working with Cheltenham Borough Council on biodiversity and landscaping plans within the £1.6million walking and cycling improvements in west Cheltenham.

Both councils have been working hard behind the scenes to make the new cycle path along the A40 from Benhall roundabout into Cheltenham as ecologically conscious and tree-friendly as possible.

Work started in January 2021 on the next section of the West Cheltenham Transport Improvement Scheme, which includes £1.6 million investment into walking and cycling facilities. The separate cycle path between Benhall Roundabout and Griffiths Avenue will meet the new national guidance, and both councils are working together to improve the diversity of plants as well as the general look and feel of the area when the scheme is complete.

There are many established trees in this section and by using a special “no dig” technique the new cycle path can be laid without damaging tree roots. The oak trees lining the A40 between Arle Court and Benhall Roundabouts will be preserved.

David Owen, CEO GFirst LEP said “The LEP welcomes these improvements, our draft Local Industrial Strategy highlighted our desire to increase investment in both cycling and walking infrastructure across the county and to focus on climate change. These improvements will further connect the area and allow for better access for walkers and cyclists alike.”

Resist the cycle path on the Councils land. This would not make sense as it goes against our principles of becoming carbon neutral, actively take steps to tackle climate change and to encourage environmentally friendly behaviours. Cheltenham Borough Council are doing what they can to facilitate this improved cycle network provision.

The County have presented the scheme to Ward members. A letter and drawings will be mailed to residents along the route (13^th March 2021) and to any resident groups. Cheltenham Borough Homes have been informed, green spaces manager, senior trees officer, planning and conservation, townscape manager, Ubico and environmental services.

Each officer involved has contributed and commented and those comments have been taken on board to facilitate the best possible outcome. The residents are due to be contacted and the ward members were reported to have been in support.