Huge change for roundabouts in Cirencester as major works given start date

Phil Norris

17 June 2024 at 7:43 am·3-min read

The Fire Station roundabout in Cirencester — -Credit: (Image: Google)

Major works are set to begin on two Cirencester roundabouts next month - the one nearest to the Fire Station on the dual carriageway and the mini-roundabout at the junction of Love Lane and Midland Road. The overhaul, which is scheduled to start from Monday, July 29, aims to enhance traffic capacity and flow.

The project, expected to last around eight months in the Cotswolds town, will be carried out in stages to lessen disruption, with work kicking off at the Midland Road mini-roundabout. The modifications are anticipated to result in improved traffic flows and reduced queues at the roundabout and within the immediate vicinity.

Bathurst Development, the master developers for the new neighbourhood at The Steadings, has enlisted Worcester-based Montel Civil Engineering to undertake the works. Improvements to the Midland Road / Love Lane junction will include the creation of a two-lane entry from Midland Road onto the mini roundabout.

The main Fire Station roundabout is set to undergo improvements, including the creation of a drainage basin in the central island to address flooding issues. The island will be reduced in size to make way for additional lanes on the roundabout.

The existing verge will be minimised to facilitate a three-lane entry from Midland Road onto the roundabout, and traffic lights will be installed to help manage traffic flow. Pedestrians and cyclists will also benefit from the refurbishment of the existing subway, new crossings on the eastern and southern arms of the roundabout, and resurfacing of the current footpaths.

The works plan for the roundabouts -Credit:Bathurst Development Limited

Peter Cusdin, Development Director for The Steadings, says “We appreciate the improvement works will cause some disruption, for which we do apologise in advance for the inconvenience this will cause. We are confident this investment will deliver a much easier and safer experience for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians in this busy area.

"The enhanced layout of the roundabout will improve traffic flow, improve safety, reduce queues and the associated pollution of congestion, and help mitigate flooding. BDL is working successfully with Montel on the construction of the access road within phase 2 of The Steadings. The contractor works to high standards. They have experience of complex projects and a depth of local knowledge and understanding.”

During the week starting Monday, June 24, a number of trees will be removed from the roundabout's centre as part of flood mitigation efforts. However, some trees will be preserved and safeguarded throughout the process. Bathurst Development has engaged an ecologist to oversee the tree works on site. No trees housing nesting birds or other protected species will be removed.

Signs will be displayed in the surrounding area while work is ongoing on both footpaths and roads. Updates on the progress can be found on The Steadings website.

Overview of the upcoming works

Work will start on July 29 after the Royal International Air Tattoo, with a completion date in Spring 2025.
Preliminary works will start on June 24 for one week in the centre of the existing roundabout.
Work will not affect access to and from the Fire Station.

Developer HarperCrewe’s flagship development at The Steadings, delivered in collaboration with The Bathurst Developmen -Credit:HarperCrewe

About The Steadings

The Steadings is described as a welcoming and integrated new neighbourhood for Cirencester with high quality design and sustainable living at its heart. Located across 300 acres on the Chesterton edge of Cirencester, The Steadings will deliver high quality and sensitively designed spaces that provide an attractive, welcoming and healthy environment for everybody to enjoy.

This will comprise: 2,350 new homes, including 30% affordable; employment land for business; 100 acres of green space for people and wildlife; a new primary school; indoor sports hall; mini-football pitches and tennis courts; healthcare facilities; local retail; restaurants and cafés; plus a neighbourhood centre and village centre.

The Chesterton Farm complex, including Grade II listed farmhouse, situated at the very heart of the community, will be renovated and form the hub for the new neighbourhood.

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Overview of the upcoming works

About The Steadings

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