The A435 route, linking Cheltenham and Bishop’s Cleeve, will be officially opened at an active travel celebration hosted by Gloucestershire County Council.

The event will take place on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 1pm to 6pm at Cheltenham Tigers Rugby Club on Southam Lane.

Cllr Roger Whyborn, the council’s cabinet member for sustainable transport and strategic highways, said: “This new cycleway is an important improvement for people travelling between Cheltenham and Bishop’s Cleeve and it’s great to be able to officially open it with the community.

“By creating safer, more accessible routes like this, we’re helping to make walking, wheeling and cycling a realistic choice for everyday journeys, as well as supporting healthier lifestyles and more sustainable travel across the county.

“I’d encourage people to come along, enjoy the route and find out more about the range of active travel opportunities available in Gloucestershire.”

Visitors will be able to try the new cycleway

Visitors will be able to try out the new cycleway, explore the footway if walking or wheeling, and learn more about the scheme and other active travel opportunities in the county.

The event will also mark the launch of the Cycle Your Patch campaign.

Displays will showcase the improvements, with interactive demonstrations featuring e-bikes, adaptive bikes, e-scooters, and cargo bikes.

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There will also be bicycle maintenance tips and a pedal-powered smoothie bike.

Information will be available on active travel, transport planning, and public health.

Attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport to reach the event.
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The A435 cycleway runs between the Honeybourne Line and the GE roundabout at the southern edge of Bishop’s Cleeve.

It has been primarily funded by UK Government Active Travel funding, along with Community Infrastructure Levy funds and developer contributions.

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Chris Boardman, national active travel commissioner, said: “When you give people a safe, direct and attractive place to ride or walk, they use it – it’s that simple.

“This cycleway isn’t just a piece of infrastructure, it’s an invitation to thousands of people to leave the car at home.”