Plans to tackle congestion with dual vital Somerset road

Government plan unveiled for £170M dual vital road in Somerset to tackle congestion on the A303.

New government plans to tackle congestion on the A303 means that drivers in Somerset will have quicker, safer and more reliable journeys.

The key route between Sparkford and Ilchester is being upgraded to relieve the over-congested road and create 30 miles of dual carriageway between Mere and South Petherton.

The road is originally designed for 13,000 cars, but over 26,000 vehicles use this stretch of road a day.

The section between Sparkford and Ilchester is a mix of dual and single lane carriageway, which leads to localised congestion. It also has a poor accident record.

Dualling the route will cut journey times and new junctions will enhance safety. Along with new junctions, there will also be better links for pedestrians and cyclists.

The preferred route between Sparkford and Ilchester is due to be announced in autumn this year. Work is expected to start in 2020.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Almost 4 million trips are made on the A303 every year and we are investing more than £2Bn to improve these motorists’ journeys, making them quicker and safer.

“Tackling congestion on this vital road will also help boost the economy in the south-west, unlock thousands of jobs and homes and promote tourism.”

Highways England Chief Executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “This scheme will be really good news for people travelling to and from the south-west, particularly during the busy summer months.

“Our consultation and public exhibitions will provide an excellent opportunity to explain further our plans and to hear feedback from people on our proposals to deliver the scheme.”

Highways England Chief Executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “This scheme will be really good news for people travelling to and from the south-west, particularly during the busy summer months.

“Our consultation and public exhibitions will provide an excellent opportunity to explain further our plans and to hear feedback from people on our proposals to deliver the scheme.”

The works come as part of the government’s £15Bn investment in motorways and major A roads between 2015 and 2020.

The road investment is the biggest made in a generation.

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