The traffic “nightmare” people face getting into and out of Gloucester from the Forest has reignited calls for a new Severn crossing.

Restrictions on the A40 for essential repair works have led to long delays.

With the Forest Council instructed by the government with finding land for another 13,000 new houses over the next two decades, councillors fear the situation will only get worse without a new crossing.

District councillor John Francis (Ind, Longhope and Huntley), who supports a new bridge, said: “It is causing major problems and the impact on the businesses in the area and the knock-on effect throughout the Forest must run into millions.”

He said the best route would be the old railway bridge from Lydney to Sharpness.

Lydney East councillor Alan Preest (Reform) has supported a bridge at Minsterworth but says it is unlikely to happen because of the cost.

He added: ““The best thing to do is encourage people to get rail cards because you can get between Lydney and Gloucester in 20 minutes.”

Gloucestershire County Council says plans for a new bridge is not under discussion at Shire Hall and would probbaly fall under the remit of National Highways or a future strategic authority.