The South Glos Post

South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) and the Highways Authority will discuss the future use of the Tormarton rest area on the A46 this Wednesday (18th January).

The rest area is an important facility for both drivers on the A46, and long-distance hikers on the Cotswold Way.

The Highways Agency has proposed to remove the toilet facilities, and to leave the limited ‘park & share’ site as it is, rather than expand.

Cllr Sue Hope (Liberal Democrat, Cotswold Edge) said:

“We’ve were promised an expansion of the land available for Park and Share many years ago and nothing’s ever been done – it would reduce congestion, reduce pollution, remove parking from the surrounding verges; if we can bite the bullet now, and spend a small amount of money, it would be a win for everybody involved.”

“It’s a popular, well-used site, and we have the ability to expand to meet demand. Together with Tormarton Parish Council, we are going to push hard to have this done.”

“The toilet facilities in the same area are crucial to comfort and convenience – this isn’t just a car park, it’s a stop on the beautiful Cotswold Way, where hikers can refresh themselves.”

The toilet facilities have been closed for some time, and we are looking at rebuilding a proper facility in the most cost-effective way. It’s ludicrously unrealistic to tell hikers they can go to Bath to use a toilet. Anything other than a proper block will be unsanitary and unpleasant.”

Related link: Agenda for the meeting of SGC’s Planning, Transport and Strategic Environment Select Committee on Wednesday

Source: Liberal Democrat Group on South Gloucestershire Council

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Police were called to reports of a multi vehicle road traffic collision on the M4 this morning at about 6am.

The incident occurred between the exit and entry slip roads of junction 18 (Tormarton, A46 Bath turn-off) and involved three lorries, which had been in collision with the central reservation.

One of the vehicles was carrying what is believed to be concrete building blocks. The vehicle ended up on its side lying across the motorway scattering its load across all lanes of the motorway.

Traffic travelling both directions along the motorway were diverted off the motorway via the slip roads at junction 18 to allow the police and highways agency to clear the motorway of the concrete blocks.

However, because the peak period of people travelling to work is approaching police are advising people to avoid the area and find an alternative route into work. The westbound section of the motorway is particularly busy.

Recovery vehicles have been called to the scene.

The driver of one of the vehicles injured in the collision – a man in his 50s – has been taken to Frenchay Hospital although his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

Source: Avon and Somerset Police