Roadworks planned for seven months on key A-road

Surveys were undertaken after cracks appeared on the sidewalk in Limpley Stoke

A busy A-road will be closed for about seven months for safety improvement work to take place.

From August 12, a diversion route on the A36 between Monkton Combe to Limpley Stoke will be in place, after cracks appeared.

The work is expected to be concluded by spring 2025.

Senior Project Manager for National Highways, Hugh Campbell, said: “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."

Residents in properties within the enclosure will be provided access

The A36 runs from Bath, down to Southampton. The repair work will focus on the northern section of the road, close to the border between Somerset and Wiltshire.

Following surveys to assess the cause and extent of damage, National Highways determined that work was needed to stabilise the southbound embankment.

Workers will also install new drainage and pavement.

Mr Campbell continued: “Once it's all complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come.”

Speaking for Bath and North East Somerset Council, councillor Manda Rigby said: "Unfortunately these are significant works to repair an ongoing issue that will be disruptive for a period of time but what National Highways are doing is absolutely essential.

“We’ve worked closely with National Highways to make sure suitable diversions are put in place, the works cause as little disruption as possible and that residents will be kept informed throughout the project.”

The diversion route will take traffic via the A361, A350 and the A4. Taller vehicles are advised to use the A361, A350, M4, M32, A4174 and the A4.