A39 at Bristol Hill, Wells, closed for nearly two weeks to cut down trees

There are diseased ash trees near the road, which need to be cut down before they fall into the carriageway.

Somerset County Council's (SCC) Highways Team will be closing the A39 at Bristol Hill from 9am until 3pm on weekdays until Thursday, January 21.

The trees are infected with Ash Dieback - which is a fungus that kills ash trees. The dead trees will fall into the road if they are not cut down.

“It is essential that the dead and dying trees in Wells are taken down for public safety as soon as possible, so it is great that our team were able to work in partnership with the landowners and act swiftly to solve the problem," said Councillor John Woodman, SCC's cabinet member for highways.

“We needed to ensure this could be done safely so there will be a closure for nine days, but this will be lifted at weekends and after 3pm to allow traffic to flow at peak hours.

“Given the current national restrictions traffic will undoubtedly be lighter with motorists only undertaking essential journeys.

"Nevertheless, you should still plan ahead if you are heading in this direction.”

The road will need to be closed for the safety of the public and motorists while the trees are being cut down.

During the road closure a suggested diversion route can be found at travelsomerset.co.uk/roadworks