Work to repair and re-open the old A40 that links two major roads in the Cotswolds will take place next month.

The road known as the 'old A40' or the ‘Prison Copse Wall' had been closed for the last two years after a wall collapsed and cracks appeared on the carriageway.

Engineers have been working to establish the exact cause of the damage and to design the best repair solution.

From March 4 to March 27, highways crews will carry out road repairs that include reconstructing the carriageway, drainage work, fencing, lining and new signage.

Once the repairs are complete, Gloucestershire County Council will continue to monitor the condition of the road and surrounding area to make sure the road remains safe.

An extension of the 30mph speed limit will be imposed and a short length of carriageway will be limited to a single lane with passing bays.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood, said: “The Prison Copse road linking the A40 and A429 near Northleach had to be closed. Safety has to be our number one priority, so a full road closure had to remain in place to protect the public. I understand that the road closure has caused inconvenience to local residents, therefore I’m pleased these safety improvements are taking place and I would like to thank local residents and road users for their ongoing patience.”

GCC Lib Dem leader Cllr Paul Hodgkinson said: “I’ve campaigned hard on behalf of residents to get this road re-opened. I know how important the route is for local residents and visitors alike, therefore I’m delighted our highways crews are now able to carry out the essential repairs to allow this popular route to link villages and Northleach together again.”