Plans on show in Chard and Bridgwater for flooding and traffic schemes
Two separate drop-in events are taking place today across Somerset
Multi-million pound plans go on show today aimed at reducing flooding in Chard by updating the sewer system - and speeding up traffic in Bridgwater.
The work, starting in January, will see a number of road closures and last until September - and also include improvements to the town's gas network
The public drop-in is from 9am-6pmat the town's Guildhall.
There's also a separate drop-in today in Bridgwater's town hall - between 1230pm and 6pm to answer questions about the ongoing Dunball roundabout works
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services said: “These are two vital schemes for Chard – we’re really pleased to see the sewer improvement being delivered – it's great news for residents who have suffered from sewer flooding in the immediate area.
“The gas main improvement is taking place across Somerset. Sharing road space and getting both important schemes done at the same time during 2025 will minimise disruption for road users and residents, but we are fully aware there will be an impact for those in the immediate area and the travelling public which is why we are working collaboratively to reduce this as much as possible.”
Some advanced works by Wales and West Utilities which will require a closure on the T-junction of Furzehill (18 November – 20 December). The main schemes starting in January will require a closure of the A358 Furnham Road for several months and work will be done on Glynswood and Victoria Avenue. There will be phased closures between early January 2025 and September 2025 to allow both operators to deliver their schemes. These include a closure of the A358 from February 2025 to the end of May 2025.
Wessex Water project manager Mike Horton said: “Historically, this area of Chard has suffered issues with sewer flooding during heavy rain which is why we’re proposing this significant investment towards addressing the capacity of the network.
“We recognise that work like this is disruptive and are working closely with Somerset Council and Wales & West to ensure these projects are completed in a way that can reduce longer-term inconvenience for local customers.’’
Wales & West Utilities Programme Controller, Roxanne Whittaker said: “We know that working in areas like this is not ideal which is why we’re working in collaboration with Somerset Council and Wessex Water to minimise disruption to the local community. Our team of engineers will be working as safely and as quickly as possible to complete this essential upgrade work to make sure the network is fit for the future."