TWO new projects have been unveiled aimed at improving connections to nature reserves in the area.

The first scheme - which is estimated to cost £516,000 - includes improving access public rights of way that link into the Cotswold Way including at Coaley Peak and Standish Woods.

Meanwhile, the second project will use £700,000 of funding to help restore the Crickley Hill Ramparts, a scheduled ancient monument near Birdlip.

The second project will also fund the conservation and improvement works of nearly 1.5kms of drystone walling across several sites including Newark Park near Wotton.

The Boundary Court barn near Woodchester will also be restored.

Both projects are being funded by National Highways’ Environment and Wellbeing fund in collaboration with the National Trust.

It comes as the National Highways is working on the A417 Missing Link scheme, creating a three-mile dual carriageway between Gloucester and Cirencester.

Officials say it is hoped the scheme will improve wellbeing by allowing greater access to natural green space and encouraging active travel in the area.

Work is underway on both projects and they are expected to be completed by March 2025.

Footpaths at Coaley Peak are being made more accessible  (Image: National Highways)

Jess Dudley, from National Highways said: “Our work goes beyond operating, maintaining and improving roads, and through our environmental and wellbeing fund, we're investing in the environment and communities surrounding our network.

“We’re delighted to be able to support such worthwhile projects which will help to support and reconnect the A417 with local heritage and the landscape whilst also helping to keep traditional skills alive.

“This is a glowing example of how this funding and partnership working can make life better for communities and the environment around our roads.

“The investment underlines our commitment to reducing the impact of our roads on the environment, which will offer many benefits to local people and visitors.”

Resurfacing works are in progress at Standish Woods and Haresfield Beacon (Image: National Highways)

Jonny Loose, from the National Trust, said: “These access and conservation projects create a fantastic opportunity for us to welcome more people to the Cotswolds and for them to immerse themselves in this iconic landscape.

“Our project team has already started working with an amazing group of volunteers and dry stone wall specialists using traditional methods to restore sections of walling near the Cotswold Way and the historic walls at Newark Park.

“Visitors can already see the fruits of their hard work – and it is hard work!

“We’re working our way through the improvements to the Rights of Way network to ensure more people can get out and enjoy these areas and we look forward to sharing more about these projects as they progress.”