FOREST of Dean residents are voicing growing frustration over the impact of the A40 Over Bridge roadworks after just over a week of disruption, with some warning of "months of misery" ahead and others calling for collective action.

The National Highways project, which is expected to continue until spring 2027, has already prompted widespread discussion among commuters, businesses and community groups across the district.

Many residents have taken to social media to share their experiences of longer journeys and increased congestion on routes linking the Forest of Dean with Gloucester.

One resident questioned whether demonstrations could be organised if conditions continue to worsen.

They wrote: "After the first week of the A40 disruption will the masses from the Forest of Dean be holding protests and marches throughout the city?

"I feel anguish for those who must travel this route daily. For those who travel in rush hour I am feeling your pain."

Others suggested residents should unite to push for changes to how the works are being managed.

One commenter said: "Unless people stand together nothing will be done. The roads need to be maintained but there must be a less disruptive way.

"On a normal day the journey takes double the time it should. There are no real alternative routes no matter how much notice they have given. Most people have no choice and are facing months of misery."

Another encouraged concerned residents to attend a public meeting at Minsterworth Village Hall next week to discuss the impact of the works.

Alongside concerns about commuting, attention has also turned to the effect the disruption could have on local businesses.

A new Facebook group, Forest of Dean Open for Business – Supporting Local During A40 Roadworks, has been launched to help businesses promote themselves during the works.

The group aims to encourage residents to support local firms, highlight businesses people may not have previously known about and advertise employment opportunities for those whose normal commuting arrangements may become more difficult.

Its creators said: "It won't solve the issue, but we've created Forest of Dean Open for Business to support local businesses that are going to lose custom from people travelling from the city to the Forest of Dean.

"It is also a place for businesses to advertise local jobs as some people are going to struggle to travel and may need to look elsewhere. We only started it today but hope it can be a group with some positivity in a really challenging situation."

The concerns come as Gloucestershire County Council announced measures aimed at reducing congestion during the works.

The authority said it is asking utility companies to avoid non-essential roadworks in the area, carefully reviewing permit applications and working with partners to help keep traffic moving where possible.

National Highways' repairs to the A40 Over Bridge are expected to continue until spring 2027.

However, with many months of work still ahead, residents and businesses across the Forest of Dean are already voicing concerns about the long-term impact on journeys, commuting and trade.