A38 Somerset roadworks near M5 move closer to start

The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed £26 million in funding for improvements along the A38 corridor, which will be delivered by North Somerset and Somerset Councils. This includes work on the Edithmead Roundabout near Junction 22 of the M5.

Work, due to begin in January 2027, will see the creation of through-about traffic signals where the heaviest traffic flow is routed through the centre of the roundabout, as well as a signalised cycle crossing on the B3140 via the enlarged splitter island.

This funding announcement follows Government approval of the Full Business Case for the A38 Major Road Network (MRN), submitted by the local authorities earlier in the year.

The A38 MRN project seeks to better connect local communities by improving options for getting around. This includes both active and sustainable travel, as well as plans to address road journey reliability times and safety along the A38 corridor.

The project will see vital upgrades to this important transport route at nine locations along the A38 between Barrow Street junction at Barrow Tanks and the Edithmead Roundabout (M5 J22).

Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Highways and Transport, Councillor Richard Wilkins, said: “This is great news for Somerset and the wider region; the A38 is a critical transport artery and we have worked hard with colleagues at North Somerset over a number of years to secure the vital Government funding to make these improvements a reality.

“This helps to ensure our infrastructure is future-proofed for years to come, with improved connectivity across the region.

“The work at Edithmead will deliver increased capacity to allow for further economic and residential growth whilst helping to prevent queueing at peak times on the M5.

“Elsewhere there are some important safety upgrades.”

A38 Somerset roadworks near M5 move closer to start

• Edithmead Roundabout near J22 M5: Creation of through-about traffic signals where the heaviest traffic flow is routed through the centre of the roundabout, as well as a signalised cycle crossing on the B3140 via the enlarged splitter island 
• Rooksbridge: Safety scheme comprising mainly road markings.
• Cross: Creation of a staggered junction arrangement.
• Strawberry Line Crossing: Enhanced visibility measures and upgraded signage.

Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, added: “I’d like to thank the UK Government for funding these crucial A38 improvements.

"This comes after years of hard work developing our business cases and we now look forward to being out onto site to deliver.

“The vital A38 improvements are part of plans to maintain and improve our transport network as the region’s population grows. Not only will the A38 MRN improve capacity on our roads, making journeys smoother, safer and more reliable, but the project also includes sustainable options for getting around such as the widening of walking and cycling paths and improvements to the existing crossings for the Strawberry Line.

“Creating capacity and offering choice when it comes to getting around is key, whether living, working or visiting North Somerset, so it’s crucial we prepare for the future with schemes like the A38 MRN and continue building infrastructure to support transport and access to education, leisure and economic prosperity.”

Roads Minister Justin Madders said: “The A38 is a vital route connecting communities across Somerset and the South West, and through this funding, journeys will be more reliable, with less congestion and safer for pedestrians and cyclists through wider paths and new crossings.

“By investing in key routes like the A38, the Government is strengthening local transport networks, boosting connectivity and supporting growth across the region.” 

Contractor Centregreat will carry out the Edithmead work in Somerset, which was procured as part of their contract for the recent Dunball Junction 23 scheme, while the other improvements are being done by Somerset’s existing infrastructure partner Octavius, currently in contract with the Council and delivering schemes across the county.

Work is due to begin in January 2027, with the Somerset project team planning a series of public drop-in sessions beforehand so residents can learn more about the scheme.