Major transport schemes that have 'demonstrated their value and importance' to Gloucestershire have been given a significant funding boost from a cross-council infrastructure levy.
A total of £13,763,280 has been allocated to key projects including upgrades to M5 junctions 9 and 10; and the extension of both the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine and Honeybourne Line cycle path from Cheltenham Spa Railway Station.
The allocation comes from Gloucestershire County Council's Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Infrastructure Fund, which is collected by Cheltenham Borough, Gloucester City and Tewkesbury Borough councils, to be used for 'impactful' projects which aim to improve the county's connectivity.
From the current round of funding, £10 million will be allocated to the M5 Junction 10 scheme, with the M5 Junction 9 and A46 (Ashchurch) transport project and the county's mass rapid transport scheme each receiving £1 million.
In Cheltenham, the extension of the Honeybourne Line cycle path from the railway station is allocated £770,424; the Gloucestershire Cycle Spine extension from Cheltenham to Bishops Cleeve will receive £592,856; and £400,000 will be used for the design of the Gloucester to Haresfield section of the cycle spine.
The allocation accounts for 75 per cent of the fund, with the remaining 25 per cent being ring-fenced for future projects 'of local strategic significance', which will be considered at a later date.
Councillor David Gray, cabinet member for environment and planning for Gloucestershire County Council, said: 'This is a fantastic step forward for Gloucestershire.
'The funding allocated through the CIL Infrastructure Fund will significantly enhance our transport infrastructure, making it safer and more efficient for our residents. These projects will not only improve connectivity but also support sustainable development across the county.
'We are committed to continuing our collaborative efforts with Cheltenham Borough, Gloucester City, and Tewkesbury Borough Councils to ensure the successful delivery of these vital schemes.'
