NATIONAL HIGHWAYS is advising drivers to plan their journeys ahead of a weekend westbound closure of a road between Cheltenham and Gloucester.

A major resurfacing scheme is being carried out on the westbound A40 carriageway next month.

This begins with a full closure between M5 junction 11 and the Elmbridge Court roundabout from 8pm on Friday, November 1 to 6am on Monday, November 4.

National Highways said the resurfacing scheme will improve safety and reduce the need for unplanned repair closures.

The scheme will continue with 8pm to 6am closures on weeknights between the Arle Court and Elmbridge Court roundabouts from Monday, November 4 to Tuesday, November 19.

During the weekend closure, drivers will be able to access Cheltenham via M5 junction 11 as normal and Gloucester via the B4063 diversion or from junction 11A.

On weeknights, drivers exiting the M5 at junction 11 will be able to join the A40 in the eastbound direction only, with clearly-signed diversion routes also in place for HGVs.

National Highways project manager Kevin Gibbs said: “To minimise disruption, we’re carrying out the work on the one weekend and weeknights when traffic flows are at their lowest.

“We understand that road closures can be frustrating.

“We’re keeping the closures to an absolute minimum, and we thank all drivers in advance for their cooperation and patience while we carry out these essential works.

“In the meantime, we advise drivers to plan ahead and allow a little extra time for their journeys, and once complete, these improvements will benefit road-users and the local community for many years to come.”

The work has been planned with Gloucestershire County Council, which will also be carrying out work on its section of the A40 to reduce the requirement for further closures.

During the scheme work, drivers can obtain up-to-the-minute travel information on local radio, the @HighwaysSWEST X feed, by phoning the National Highways information line on 0300 123 5000 or by going to trafficengland.com