NATIONAL Highways is tackling flooding issues along the M50 with a major maintenance scheme that will run the whole length of the motorway.

The drainage system on both sides of the carriageway between M50 junction four in Ross-on-Wye and M5 junction eight will be targeted in the scheme.

The work will include cleaning, repairs and removing vegetation from the drainage system.

National Highways project manager Dan Bothwick said: “We know there have been issues with flooding in some areas along this route and so are taking action to repair and improve drainage along the length of the motorway.

“There is a lot of ground to cover, and we appreciate this will cause some disruption for road users and communities, but we will do the work at night when we know traffic numbers are lower.”

The roadworks begins on Monday, July 28 and will be carried out in phases to reduce the impact on traffic. It is expected to continue through to next April. It will take place overnight, between 8pm and 6am.

Mr Bothwick added: “When it is essential that we close the road, we will also take the opportunity to carry out such important works as grass cutting, repairing barriers, cleaning signage and other tasks that would otherwise involve a further closure.

“We will consider whether any resurfacing work can be carried out and also carry out repairs to damaged safety netting between junctions four at Ross to junction three for Gorsley/Newent. We want to utilise the closures as much as possible to avoid further disruption for drivers.”

The immediate closures will be westbound from M5 junction eight to M50 junction two, (Gloucester, A417) on Thursday, August 14 to Tuesday, August 19 and eastbound between the same junctions between Wednesday, August 20 to Wednesday. August 27, excluding Bank Holiday Monday, August 25.