Banwell Bypass a step closer as CPOs approved
North Somerset Council has been given the green light to buy land needed for the road
A major step has been taken towards building the Banwell bypass in North Somerset.
The Department for Transport (DfT) has written to North Somerset Council approving the use of Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs), to buy land necessary to build the road, where negotiations with the land owner(s) have failed.
The news follows a public inquiry into the possible use of CPOs, held over the summer of 2023, in which interested parties argued for and against their use.
Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, said: “The Banwell bypass was first proposed all the way back in 1927, so this brilliant news marks a truly historic day for North Somerset.
"Now we have the green light use CPOs, we’re able to acquire the land, get on site and start building."
It is hoped the new road, which will connect the A38 and Weston Super Mare, will ease congestion through Banwell village.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped us on our journey so far, including those who shared their views in consultation and shaped the bypass design, along with the design of miles of walking, cycling and horse-riding tracks," Councillor Bell said.
"I’d also like to thank John Penrose MP for his continued support for this important project."
Work will now begin to prepare the area for construction, which North Somerset Council says will begin in the Spring.
Work to build the road will also see new ponds, woodland and wetland created.
"Steve Voller from the Build Our Bypass community group added: “This is fantastic news for Banwell residents and anyone who suffers from the increasing congestion and delays trying to get through the village.
"New footpaths, cycle ways and horse-riding tracks make this a scheme not just a road.
"We’re really excited by the news and are now looking forward to work getting started."
The Banwell bypass is funded through Homes England’s Housing Infrastructure Fund.
You can read more about the scheme via this link.