Important Statement: A40 Over Bridge Significant Disruption

The works along the A40 have already caused huge upheaval and massive congestion for people in the Forest of Dean.  For many of you, these closures will have affected, and will continue to affect, your journeys to work, access to healthcare appointments, school runs, local businesses’ operations, and everyday life.

I fully understand and share your frustrations. What Forest of Dean residents are being forced to endure is not good enough.  

These repairs are essential to keep people safe, and public safety must always come first. But that does not mean poor planning and communication should be accepted.

Since becoming your MP, I have consistently challenged the way major road closures are coordinated. On the A40, I have pressed the Department for Transport and the Roads Minister for support, including subsidised rail fares, additional rail services, and investment to help ease congestion.

I have also challenged National Highways over the lack of early communication and sought answers on why local stakeholders were not informed sooner. I brought together National Highways, Gloucestershire Highways, the NHS, and emergency services to ensure that practical solutions are in place and that emergency access is maintained throughout the works.

National Highways has acknowledged that the urgent nature of the repairs meant planning and consultation fell below the standard they would normally expect. I have made it clear that this cannot become the norm.

I will continue to hold those responsible to account, press for better coordination of roadworks, and stand up for residents and businesses affected by this significant disruption.

Over Farm has a fantastic feature on their website with East and West-facing cameras that may help you manage your travel times.

Find the webcam here: A40 Over Bridge Roadworks | Over Farm – Farm Shop, Family Fun & Events in Gloucester

For anyone wishing to email me regarding this issue, please do so via matt. bishop.mp@parliament.uk and use the subject heading ‘A40 OVER BRIDGE NATIONAL HIGHWAYS WORKS’. This enables my team and me to quickly direct your concerns to the appropriate place.

I will be collating all your concerns, building a profile of the impact this is having, and taking it to Highways myself.

You can contact Highways directly on: info@nationalhighways.co.uk and 0300 123 5000.

Further information can be found here: A40 Over Bridge refurbishment - National Highways

Forest of Dean residents deserve better, and I will continue to fight for that.