Cotswolds A436 Road Closure Persists After Storm Darragh

An important A-road is expected to remain shut for a minimum of one more week as efforts continue to remove numerous trees felled by Storm Darragh. Gloucestershire County Council verified the closure of the A436, located near Bourton-on-the-Water, specifically between Notgrove and the A429 at Whiteshoots Hill. Over 50 trees collapsed onto the roadway following high winds, reaching approximately 80mph (130km/h), which impacted areas of the West on December 7. Jason Humm, the council’s director of highways, described the clearing operation as “unprecedented”. Teams have spent the past week removing the debris, enabling local residents to now exit their homes. Officials stated that residents who had been confined were provided with assistance, including essential supplies like food and medication. Mr Humm said: “The situation on the A436 is unprecedented and anyone who has watched the drone footage can see that. “We’re working hard to clear the road as quickly as possible of the 50 or more trees that have come down.”These trees are enormous, so this process will take up to a week. Residents that have been impacted have been offered support and help with essentials. “In terms of the long-term safety, we will be undertaking checks on the rest of the trees and will provide regular updates. These trees are in private ownership, but the landowner is working closely with us. “We appreciate everyone’s patience whilst the road is closed.”