A MULTI million pound project to renew traffic lights and crossings across Somerset moves into its next stage early in the new year.

Work to replace signals in the Rowbarton area of Taunton - the first stage of a major investment in the county’s network infrastructure - was recently completed following months of disruption to road users.

Now the focus turns to other towns across the county.

The team is currently upgrading a crossing in Westonzoyland Road, in Bridgwater, and is due to complete before Christmas.

A package of works in Yeovil, Wells, Shepton Mallet and Frome will see the refurbishment of traffic signals between 25 and 40 years old which have reached the end of their working life and must be replaced.

Somerset County Council has announced that Yeovil will see work start in early 2022 at a number of key sites on Lysander Road and three crossings there.

The junction signal refurbishments on Lysander Road are:

  • West Hendford;
  • Pine Tree Avenue;
  • Forest Hill.

In addition crossings on Lyde Road, Sherborne Road and Ilchester Road are also scheduled to refurbished.

Work moves to Wells, Shepton Mallet and Frome later in 2022 and early 2023.

The new signals will be more efficient, more eco-friendly, and importantly should improve traffic flow and will also provide much safer access for both cyclists and pedestrians.

The work in Yeovil is likely to impact on residents, businesses and road users on what are busy routes.

But the county council's highways team has significant experience of managing such issues and will work with the chosen contractor on minimising any disruption as much as possible.

“It’s vital we get on with this work and replace the signals – doing nothing just isn’t an option,” said Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, Cllr John Woodman.

“This is part of our ongoing commitment to investing in Somerset’s infrastructure and ensuring our road network is fit for purpose for years to come.

“We’ll be working closely with local businesses and the community to ensure they have all the information they need, and disruption is kept to a minimum.”