£11.6m traffic signals programme to start on busy junction in Bridgwater
Work gets going on January 15
Last updated 9th Jun 2024
Work restarts later this month to renew traffic lights and crossings across Somerset.
The plans are part of a multi-million pound package which returns to Bridgwater on January 15 - with the scheme a 'key component' of the town's Celebration Mile project.
As part of the project, there will be major upgrades to traffic signals at the Broadway/St John’s Street junction, as the zebra crossings on Broadway near Blake Place being replaced with new puffin crossings.
The project
At the Broadway/St John's Street Junction, work will also include a new parallel crossing and an improved pedestrian crossing.
This is hoped by the local authority to let cyclists cross the busy junction 'in one movement'.
Back in 2021, signals recovery works were carries out on Westonzoyland Road.
Across Somerset, the council is working to replace signals at the end of their working life, and in Bridgwater, the work is expected to conclude in the summer.
That includes resurfacing of a significant section of Broadway, including Monmouth Street, the top of St John’s Street and up to Salmon Parade - with broadband provider Virgin Media also working alongside the authority's teams to make sure no more works will be needed later.
Disruption is likely, but the council says they'll be working with the contractor to minimise the level of disruption 'as much as possible'.
Celebration Mile
'Celebration Mile' in Bridgwater is all about making a pedestrian and cycle friendly route from the train station to the retail core, finally ending at the Docks.
It's hoped people will be able to access it and take in the history of the town.
Somerset County Council’s Executive Lead Member for Transport and Digital, Cllr Mike Rigby said: “This is significant investment in essential infrastructure which ensures our network is fit for purpose for many years to come.
“But more than this, the improved signalling, and crossings greatly will improve access for cyclists and pedestrians supporting the development of Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile on part of the key route from the train station.
“We’ll be working closely with local businesses and the community to ensure they have all the information they need, and disruption is kept to a minimum.”
Somerset County Council’s highways team recently netted the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transport highly commended status for its Taunton Rowbarton scheme in the CIHT 2022 awards.
The scheme was recognised for its exemplar collaboration practices with partners and the community.
If you spot a problem on the road you can report it quickly and easily by visiting the Council's website.