South Gloucestershire Council’s plans for the new M49 junction link road have been given planning permission.
A planning application for the link road, which will create direct access from the Severnside industrial and enterprise area to the motorway network via the junction on the M49, was approved by the Local Planning Authority on 23 November.
The link road will unlock significant benefits for South Gloucestershire’s business communities, will help build upon the economic potential of the area and relieve congestion on local roads. It also includes improvements to an adjacent cycle path which is part of the National Cycle Network.
Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, Councillor Claire Young said: “This is a significant step forward with our work to get the link road built and connect the M49 junction for the benefit of local communities and the economy.
“I am delighted that we’ve been able to progress this situation and cut through the red tape so we can get the link road built as soon as practically possible.”
Councillor Chris Willmore, cabinet member for transport, said: “We are pleased that this vital piece of infrastructure has achieved such an important milestone. This really is the art of the possible. I was lobbying with others back in the 1990s on this and when I was elected to council, I came with the commitment to get this sorted.
“The sooner we are able to build the link road, the sooner National Highways can open the M49 junction, which will not only support the Severnside business community but will take HGVs off local roads making local villages safer and more pleasant for our residents.”
The link road is being funded by the Department for Transport.
Construction work is due to start next year, but this timeframe is dependent on land ownership discussions, which remain ongoing. The council continues to work proactively with landowners to secure the land as quickly as possible. Construction is expected to last approximately 12 months.
For more information and to keep up-to-date with the latest developments, visit: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/m49-link-road/
