Updated A358 plans go on show

National Highways says it's made changes to the planned dual carriageway on the A358 between Taunton and Southfields

An image of the proposed new route
Author: Andrew KayPublished 26th May 2022
Last updated 26th May 2022

Updated plans to dual the A358 - between the M5 at Taunton and A303 at Illminster - go on show later.

National Highways says it's made changes to the original plans, after more than 900- comments during a recent consultation.

You can see the plans today between 11 and 8 at the Monks Yard Conference Room at Horton Cross.

They can also be seen on Wednesday 8 June from 11am to 8pm at Somerset County Cricket Club and on Saturday 11 June from 11am to 6pm at Taunton Racecourse.

Katherine Liddington, Senior Project Manager for the A358 scheme, said: “We plan to upgrade approximately 8.5 miles of the A358 to a new high-quality and high-performing dual carriageway, which will reduce congestion, enhance safety and improve connectivity for road users and local communities, while unlocking economic growth in Somerset and beyond.

Visualisation showing new proposal for Mattock’s Tree Green junction looking west towards Ash Road

“Since our 2021 consultation we’ve made some changes to our preliminary design, which will improve safety and access to local roads and reduce the impact on communities, the environment and the local landscape.

“As part of our planning, we would like to hear your thoughts on our design changes before we submit our planning application later this year.”

Rebecca Pow MP added: “The A358 upgrade has been a long time coming and a great deal of progress has been made to reach this stage. It’s one of my commitments as your MP and I am pleased that Government is supporting this scheme.

Visualisation showing the new proposed Nexus 25 junction looking north

“It is also most welcome that National Highways are listening to feedback and continuing to refine the route, something I have urged them to do as working with the community is vital. 

“It is as important as ever that the A303/A358 corridor is improved as this is crucial to unlocking the region. I hope as many people as possible will take part in this supplementary consultation.”

For more about the plans click here

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