The traffic “nightmare” people face getting into and out of Gloucester from Ross-on-Wye and the Forest of Dean has reignited calls for a new Severn crossing.

Restrictions on the A40 for essential repair works have led to long delays.

With the Forest Council instructed by the government with finding land for another 13,000 new houses over the next two decades, councillors fear the situation will only get worse without a new crossing.

District councillor John Francis (Ind, Longhope and Huntley), who supports a new bridge, said: “It is causing major problems and the impact on the businesses in the area and the knock-on effect throughout the Forest must run into millions.”

He said the best route would be the old railway bridge from Lydney to Sharpness.

Terry Robinson, the engineering lead for National Highways in the South West, said: “Many of the motorways and major A roads we manage were built around 60 years ago and need renewing to ensure they remain fit for purpose for generations to come.

“The A40 at Over is now in need of significant work, which is vital to keep drivers safe and the route running into the future.

“We’re expecting this work to cause delays in the area during this complex scheme and we’re advising users to plan their journeys and use alternative routes where possible, especially during peak hours.”

Having been built in the 1970s, the £7m investment will extend the life of the bridge and reduce the risk of unplanned closures for emergency maintenance work in the future, delivering a more resilient and more reliable route for local communities, businesses and freight.

Gloucestershire County Council says plans for a new bridge is not under discussion at Shire Hall and would probbaly fall under the remit of National Highways or a future strategic authority.