UPDATE: 9/11/17

Somerset County Council is currently carrying out essential drainage repairs at Oake Road, with the works due to finish 4 days early on Monday 13 November.

Unfortunately, one of the key bridges on the diversion route was recently damaged and is in need of urgent repair. The Council is taking advantage of the reduced traffic arising from the road closure at Oake to start these repairs. The alternative is to carry out the works under a full road closure when the road repairs are fully complete.

It will be necessary to restrict vehicular access across Bradford on Tone bridge for short periods of time whilst the work is carried out. Access will still be possible across the bridge at regular intervals during the day but it may be necessary to hold traffic for five to ten minutes until vehicles can be safely escorted through the site.

We apologise for any delays this may cause and ask for your patience and understanding whilst we carry out this essential work.

***********

A major engineering scheme to upgrade drainage on a busy road near Bradford-on-Tone starts next week.

The section of Oake Road from the Tone Green junction to the old canal bridge has been prone to flooding in the past.

This scheme will replace a very old drainage system which regularly blocks with bigger pipes and an increased capacity. This will not prevent all flooding but will reduce the risk by channelling water away from Tone Green much quicker.

Work is due to start on Monday 23 October and take approximately four weeks. Due to the nature of drainage work with deep excavations in the highway, a road closure will be required. However, this will only be during working hours from 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Temporary traffic lights will be in place to keep road users safe outside these times.

Cllr John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This road is prone to flooding and I’m pleased we’re taking steps to improve the old drainage system which will make a huge difference in helping water flow away during periods of heavy road.

“We know this road is well used and apologise for any disruption while work is underway.”

A suggested diversion route suitable for all vehicles can be found at www.travelsomerset.co.uk/roadworks or will be clearly signposted on site. As with any road closure, drivers are free to find their own alternatives.

You can also stay up to date with this and other roadworks schemes by following @TravelSomerset on Twitter.