Fear roadworks will cause 'chaos' before Christmas

Work on Hurdle Way in Taunton is expected to be completed in spring 2025

Concerns have been raised over the timing of roadworks in a Somerset town.

Work to replace aging traffic lights and to upgrade crossings on Hurdle Way, in Taunton, is under way.

Somerset Council says the work is "vital" and teams will do their best to "minimise disruption".

The independent councillor for Bishop's Hull & Taunton West, John Hunt, said: "They say they're going to keep the work as low-key as possible prior to Christmas but my worry is any disruption there will cause chaos leading up to Christmas."

The work will see crossings upgraded and traffic lights replaced

Hunt added: "The scheme, once it's completed, should indeed improve things but I am concerned about the congestion during the work."

Somerset Council says the new lights will give more priority to buses, and teams will be improving pedestrian and cycling crossing facilities at the same time.

Most of the work will be carried out under temporary traffic lights.

Some short-term evening closures will be required but advanced notice will be given ahead of these.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, lead member for transport and waste services, said: “This vital project will replace old, outdated equipment close to the end of its lifespan, whilst improving conditions for pedestrians and cyclists."

He added: "We know there will be some increased disruption at peak times, we’ll do our best to minimise this, but we would also urge people to plan ahead, while the work is ongoing."

The work is expected to be completed by April 2025.

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