A38 road upgrade plans submitted to Department for Transport
Somerset councils aim to improve connectivity and safety
Improvement works planned for the A38 have advanced as the Full Business Case for the A38 Major Road Network project has been submitted to the Department for Transport (DfT).
Somerset Council and North Somerset Council have developed a plan to better connect communities, enhance road safety, and promote sustainable travel options along the A38 corridor.
The project encompasses upgrades at nine locations between Barrow Street junction at Barrow Tanks and the Edithmead Roundabout (M5 J22). Each upgrade is designed to address journey reliability and safety concerns while supporting future growth.
The Department for Transport will review the submitted proposals to determine the approval of necessary funds for the project's construction.
Councillor Mike Bell, Leader of North Somerset Council, highlighted the importance of this project, saying:
“The A38 is a vital route that connects our communities to Bristol, Somerset and beyond, so it’s great to have submitted our Full Business Case to offer the route some much needed upgrades.
"These are critical for transport in the region now and in the future. Not only will the A38 project improve road capacity, making journeys smoother, safer and more reliable, but it also includes options for sustainable shorter journeys and leisure, such as through widening of walking and cycling paths and new crossings for the Strawberry Line.
"As we wait to hear from the Department for Transport, I’d like to thank our partners at Somerset Council for all their help and collaboration as we worked together to prepare the Full Business Case. Across our neighbouring authority areas, it’s important we build infrastructure that can support smooth transport and joint access to education, leisure and economic prosperity."
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Highways and Transport, echoed the sentiment:
“This is a huge step forward for this project, thanks to the fantastic work of our team here and our partners at North Somerset Council.
“This is a key route for our region – the scheme will bring a much needed increase in vehicle capacity for the Edithmead roundabout, which will help prevent queuing at peak times, as well as improved access for pedestrians and cyclists at locations in communities along the A38.”
More details about the plans for the A38 in North Somerset are available at n-somerset.gov.uk/a38mrn