Gloucestershire County Council has confirmed a series of temporary road closures and restrictions across the Forest of Dean District, affecting multiple towns and parishes over the coming three months between December 2025 and March 2026. The measures, introduced under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, are aimed at facilitating essential infrastructure works, including broadband installation, drainage repairs, and carriageway resurfacing.

Forest of Dean motorists should prepare for early pre Christmas driving disruptions starting December 19, when the C50 road from Yartleton Lane to the A40 in Longhope Parish will close between 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. for drainage works. Shortly after, from December 22-24, the 400017 road between Birch Hill Road and Hilgay Road in St Briavels Parish will shut for broadband and telecom connections. Ley Lane in Westbury-on-Severn will also be closed from December 26-29 for Network Rail works, with no pedestrian access permitted due to safety concerns.

The new year will see further closures, including Church Walk in West Dean Parish on 5th January, and The Stenders to Wigpool Common in Mitcheldean Parish on January 7, both for utility works. Springfield Drive in Cinderford will close from January 8-10 for sewer repairs. These short-term closures will maintain emergency access, with alternative routes signposted.

From January 5, 2026, a major resurfacing programme will impact numerous roads across West Dean, Awre, Lydney, Coleford, and surrounding areas. Restrictions will vary from night closures (7pm to 7am) on roads such as Fancy Road and Cannop Road, to daytime restrictions on key routes in Lydney and Coleford, including Primrose Hill, Springfield Road, and Coalway Road. Some roads will remain open during unrestricted days, notably in Westbury-on-Severn and Clearwell.

The council anticipates completing all works by March 31 2026, though the order allows for extensions up to 18 months if necessary. During this period, no waiting, stopping, or loading will be permitted on affected roads. Pedestrian and emergency access will generally be maintained, except where safety concerns prevent it.

Residents and commuters are advised to check signage on-site and visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk or call 08000 514 514 for updates and alternative route information.