'Unexpected complications' force Yeovil cycle route delay

The new cycle route will run along Lyde Road

Completion of a new cycle route has been pushed back following "unexpected complications", a council said.

Somerset Council announced in mid-September it would be delivering a new cycle route along Lyde Road on the eastern edge of Yeovil.

It was expected to take around five weeks, opening to cyclists and pedestrians by the end of October.

But following complications, including utilities, the first phase is now expected to be finished by Christmas.

The timing of the second phase yet to be confirmed, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

However, a council spokesman said it needs to to "secure the space on the road to continue work" in order for a Christmas completion.

"Unfortunately, the team experienced a number of unexpected complications involving utility connections, and in addition had to vacate the site in October to allow for other essential utility works to take place.

"We are looking to recommence work as soon as possible," they added.

'Really positive'

The proposed route stretches between Sandringham Road and Camborne Street, near Yeovil Pen Mill railway station and will eventually cover the entire length of Lyde Road.

The second phase is intended to run as far as the Great Mead roundabout, which forms the entrance to the Wyndham Park housing estate.

An additional short section of cycle path at the northern end of Lyde Road could be delivered as part of an upgrade of the junction with the A359 Mudford Road, funded by Barratt Homes.

Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for transport and digital, said the cycle path is a "really positive development for Yeovil.. [and is] part of making Somerset a greener, more sustainable county".