PEOPLE can have their say on design changes to the A358 upgrade between the M5 at Taunton and Southfields roundabout at Ilminster.

National Highways is holding a supplementary consultation after making some refinements to the proposed route following a previous consultation.

The alterations include:

  • changes to access arrangements at Nexus 25 and Mattock’s Tree Green junctions;
  • updates to proposals for walker, cyclist, horse-rider and disabled user access;
  • a number of new areas identified as suitable for habitat creation;
  • a change in location for the main construction compound.

You can comment on the latest proposals when full details are revealed at nationalhighways.co.uk/our-work/south-west/a358-taunton-to-southfields/ from 10am on Tuesday, May 24.

Katherine Liddington, senior project manager for the A358 scheme, said: “We plan to upgrade approximately 8.5 miles of the A358 to a new high-quality and high-performing dual carriageway, which will reduce congestion, enhance safety and improve connectivity for road users and local communities, while unlocking economic growth in Somerset and beyond.

“Since our 2021 consultation we’ve made some changes to our preliminary design, which will improve safety and access to local roads and reduce the impact on communities, the environment and the local landscape.

“As part of our planning, we would like to hear your thoughts on our design changes before we submit our planning application later this year.”

The scheme aims to:

  • improve road capacity, reducing peak time delays and queues;
  • support economic growth, job creation and housing through better connection between the South East and the South West;
  • increase safety for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders;
  • protect and improve the environment;
  • reduce the road's impact and improve people’s quality of life;
  • make journey times more reliable and resilient.

The supplementary consultation runs from May 24 to June 26.

A Development Consent Order - which speeds up the planning process - will be submitted later this year ahead of a final decision by the Secretary of State.

National Highways is holding three public consultation events:

  • Thursday, May 26, 11am-8pm: Monks Yard (Conference Room), Horton Cross Farm, Horton Cross;
  • Wednesday, June 8, 11am-8pm: Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton;
  • Saturday, June 11, 11am-6pm: Taunton Racecourse, Orchard Portman.

There are also four webinars - to book your place go to the above website.

Alternatively, request a free copy of the consultation booklet, feedback questionnaire and responding to 2022 consultation booklet on 0300 1235000 or e-mail A358TauntontoSouthfields@nationalhighways.co.uk