The work will provide direct, safe and convenient crossing facilities for cyclists and pedestrians and include toucan crossings on Homberg Way and Quantock Road.  A longer queuing lane on the western arm of the roundabout will be introduced which will improve capacity and lane navigation for users.

Somerset County Council has previously been in talks with local stakeholders to help develop the traffic management proposals in a way that causes the least possible disruption.  The scheme will be constructed to ensure traffic can flow freely and will avoid temporary traffic lights.  Some overnight closures and traffic lights will be required towards the end of the works to complete the scheme.

SCC and appointed contractor Skanska have developed a three-phased approach to the works which involve:

·       Phase 1 – works to raise the ground levels on the southern side of Homberg Way

·       Phase 2 – works to construct the pedestrian/ cycle refuge on Homberg Way

·       Phase 3 – works to increase the length of the queuing lanes on the approach to the roundabout from the West

Off road construction of the cycle/ footway between the roundabout and Alfoxton Road will begin prior to the above phasing; temporary footpaths will be installed.

Councillor John Woodman, Cabinet Member for Highways at Somerset County Council said: “The roundabout improvements will provide direct, safe and convenient crossing facilities for local pedestrians and cyclists.

He continued: “Considering its proximity to local schools and the safety element of this scheme, it is one that I am sure will be welcomed.  Although the works may cause some disruption in the short term, the improvements will be of great benefit for years to come.

“We will ensure that all appropriate steps are taken to keep disruption to a minimum during the course of the works and will be keeping the local community updated as the scheme progresses.”

The work is being delivered as part of The Bridgwater Way (TBW) project which is delivering a host of travel improvements to existing roads and junctions, as well as miles of new and improved routes for pedestrians and cyclists across the town and surrounding areas.  Supported by Sedgemoor District Council and funded by EDF, TBW also works with schools, businesses and local communities to make travel around Bridgwater easier and safer. For more information on the project visit www.thebridgwaterway.co.uk.