A NEW deal between Cirencester Town Council and Gloucestershire County Council could spell the beginning of the end for the town’s lacklustre roundabouts.

It is thought that the new deal, which would see the two councils working together to maintain one of Cirencester’s roundabouts, could be the catalyst for all other roundabouts in the town getting a makeover.

Under the new deal, the roundabout, located on London Road in the new Corinium Via estate, could be tended to on a much more regular basis than previously.

At a recent meeting of the town council’s Estate Services, it was heard that the council group has taken on the management of the roundabout in order to begin addressing issues of other roundabouts in Cirencester.

Andrew Tubb, chief executive of the town council, said: “We don’t actually own the land/roundabout, we’re simply maintaining it on behalf of the county. I believe that residents of Corinium Via are grateful that it is now being cut and not just left to overgrow and become unkempt.”

David Hicks, area representative at Gloucestershire Highways said: “We are very pleased to be working with Cirencester Town Council on the Corinium Via roundabout.

“Whilst we already cut back the grass twice a year, in future the town council will take on more regular maintenance to enhance its appearance”.

Mr Tubb also said that the council has applied for a grant to fund a planting scheme involving wild flower seeds.

Roundabouts have long been a contentious issue in Cirencester with many residents feeling that they are detrimental to the town’s image.

Readers inundated the Standard’s Facebook page with comments relating to the town’s roundabouts.

Philippa Smith wrote: “I dread to think what visitors to Cirencester think when they come across our roundabouts on their approach to the Capital of the Cotswolds.”

While Geoff Sloman said: “Where are the signs welcoming people to Cirencester the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds" and promoting our historic and Roman past?

“Unfortunately our current roundabouts just don't do it. Surely some spring bulbs and wild flower planting would further enhance these gateways to the town?”

The A429 roundabout at the entrance to Burford Road is sponsored by estate agents Henry George and remains the town’s only roundabout that is cared for by a third party.