Two sets of roadworks causing 'absolute nightmare'

Residents say HGVs have been performing U-turns down narrow roads after following diversion signs

Residents have spoken out after two sets of roadworks along the same route have been causing an "absolute nightmare".

Furnham Road, the main road into Chard, has two sets of works as gas repairs and water upgrade works take place.

Steve Gibbs, who lives near the diversion, said the roadworks have been an "absolute nightmare", with HGVs performing U-turns down narrow roads.

Leaders at Somerset Council said they appreciate the disruption caused by both projects running at the same time, but insisted it was the "best option" to minimise the overall duration of the closures.

Glynswood, which leads on to Furnham Road, has been shut since January as part of Wessex Water's £1.3m upgrade to the local sewage network.

Meanwhile, Wales & West Utilities is continuing a £415k upgrade of its gas pipes, which has resulted in the second road closure in Chard.

Mr Gibbs said the road closure should have been delayed until the water works on Glynswood had finished

The roadworks mean that motorists are being diverted via Crimchard, a small residential road.

Mr Gibbs said he understands that work needs to be conducted to maintain roads, but he believes the second closure should have been delayed until Glynswood reopened.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, lead member for transport, said: "By the end of this week, our hope is that two vital schemes for Chard will be complete – and will protect homes from flooding and ensure the gas network is ready for the future."

Another resident in the town, Mandy Stamp, lives near the closure and describes the diversion as an "accident waiting to happen".

Ms Stamp says she thinks it was "crazy" to have shut the A358 before the Glynswood works had finished

She said: "So many big lorries, tractors and trailers have been doing U-turns when they arrive at the closure, it's crazy that it has been put in place when the bottom of Glynswood is still closed."

Both sets of roadworks are scheduled to finish this weekend.

Councillor Wilkins added: "We know this work has caused real disruption, and we don't underestimate the impact on daily life and local businesses.

"That's why I want to thank everyone for their patience and support during this challenging period."