Fears of gridlock amid months of roadworks

Motorists face months of roadworks and a 20-mile diversion as an A-road between Bath and Frome closes for repairs.

Diversions will be in place on the A36 Warminster Road between Limpley Stoke and Monkton Combe, in Somerset, until spring 2025.

But, some residents believe the diversion is "unrealistic" and drivers will instead opt to use nearby roads, which could cause "gridlock".

Senior project manager for National Highways, Hugh Campbell, apologised for any inconvenience caused but insisted the improvements will "benefit road users for years to come".

National Highways said that the work will include stabilising the southbound embankment and installing new drainage and pavement

Work is being carried out to stabilise the embankment by the southbound carriageway after cracks appeared on the pavement.

Mr Campbell added safety is Highways England's "number one priority".

“We understand that road closures are frustrating, but by fully closing the road, we can get this scheme done safely and quickly, causing less disruption overall," he added.

Nanneke Kingston (left) and Deb Jones are concerned about the impact the roadworks will have on their businesses

Nanneke Kingston, who lives in Limpley Stoke and manages the Galleries Community Cafe in Freshford, told BBC Somerset that she thinks the closure will affect local businesses on the A36.

Ms Kingston said: "I think a one-way system could be an option, perhaps signs that run through Midford Lane and then drivers in the opposite direction can go another way."

While Deb Jones, who lives in Midford, said the planned closure will impact her "massively" and describes it as being an "absolute nightmare".

She said: "The speed restrictions are now 20 mph so there will be constant traffic coming through the village.

"Midford Lane is going to be gridlocked as there are very few passing places and lots of people who don't use the lane won't know where to stop."

The repair work will see installation of a concrete piled wall and capping beam to stabilise the embankment. New drainage and pavement will also be constructed.