Drybrook: Road Opens Following Landslip

11 March 2014, 12:24 | Updated: 11 March 2014, 13:11

Hawthorns Road in Drybrook has been reopened to traffic following significant repairs to the site of a major landslip.

The landslip happened in November 2012 following a very wet summer and a period of heavy rainfall in the autumn. For the safety of local people, the road was closed to traffic while work was carried out. 

The slip reached 100ft below the road and was next to a high-pressure gas main serving more than 14,000 homes in the Forest of Dean, meaning significant repairs were needed. 

Highways teams carried out works to the embankment at Hawthorns Road in November 2013 after a detailed design was drawn up to ensure the site is protected from future slips. 

This year, significant geotechnical works were carried out at a cost of around £150,000. This included reinforced steel bars being drilled into the slope and bedrock below the road. 

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways, said:

'I'm delighted that the road is now open following some very challenging work by teams to make sure it is safe for traffic. 

'I would like to thank local people and businesses for their patience while this vital work was carried out.' 

Local member for Drybrook Cllr Colin Guyton said: 

'I'm very pleased that the road is open, hopefully this work will ensure the road stays open for a good number of years to come.

'Local people have asked Highways teams to consider placing a weight restriction on the road to stop heavy goods vehicles using it.'

Gloucestershire Highways has an open mind on the subject and is currently speaking to the police and local haulage companies to hear their thoughts, but any potential change to the use of the road would need to form part of a thorough consultation process. 

In the meantime, Highways welcomes comment from local people on 08000 514514.