A MAJOR scheme to stabilise a landslip-hit road near Stroud could be brought forward after investigations revealed new information about movement beneath the ground.
Gloucestershire County Council had planned to begin the full remediation of the A419 at Cowcombe Hill, near Chalford, in winter 2027.
However, the council says investigations carried out during a recent closure have provided fresh information about ground movement affecting both the road and areas further up the hillside.
It is now assessing whether the full scheme needs to start earlier than planned.
Highways previously said it would carry out extensive geotechnical work to 'prevent the road from collapsing down the hill.'
Jason Humm, director of transport and highways at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Investigation works on the A419 Cowcombe Hill landslip were successfully completed during the recent road closure.
“Temporary resurfacing repairs have been carried out, alongside maintenance works and vegetation clearance.
“Investigations have also provided new information about ground movement affecting this section of road and areas further up the hillside.
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“The council is now reviewing the findings and assessing whether the full landslip remediation scheme, currently planned for winter 2027, may need to be brought forward.
“We are working closely with specialist consultants and partners to determine the most appropriate programme of works, and further updates will be provided once these assessments have been completed.”
The A419 at Cowcombe Hill has been affected by ground movement for several years, with cracking appearing in the carriageway.
Highways officials have previously warned that extensive geotechnical work is required to prevent the road from slipping further down the hillside.
The route was closed between September 29 and October 9 while engineers carried out surveys and ground investigations to establish the extent of the movement and collect information for the permanent stabilisation scheme.
Temporary resurfacing, maintenance and vegetation clearance were also completed during the closure.
The main construction work had been scheduled to start in November 2027 after concerns were raised by local stakeholders and commoners about work disrupting cattle grazing during the spring and summer.
The permanent scheme is intended to stabilise the hillside, protect the A419 from further damage and improve the long-term reliability of the route.
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