Transport Raft of improvements planned for A38
AMULTIMILLION-POUND package of improvements has been put forward to improve safety along a key route between Bristol and Somerset.
North Somerset Council, working with Somerset County Council, has put forward ambitious plans for the A38 to improve journey reliability times and road safety.
The aim of the A38 Major Road Network scheme is to better connect local communities along the route, whether by car, public transport or active travel.
The scheme, which stretches from the junction of the A38 at Barrow Gurney right down to the Edithmead roundabout, sets out a number of proposals.
Plans include making improvements to the junction of Barrow Street and the A38 including adjustments to the current traffic signals and the relocation of the existing bus stop.
There are also plans to make changes to the roads around Bristol Airport. This includes installing an additional lane for traffic between the airport terminal roundabout to the silver zone roundabout to reduce delays.
There will also be new cycle and pedestrian lanes.
New cycling and walking links are also being proposed at the junction of Barrow Lane and Hobbs Lane to Dial Lane.
New cycleways and footpaths will be created in Langford and a wider footway will be installed from Sidcot Lane to Hillyfields.
In the village of Rooksbridge there are plans to revise the speed limits and narrow the highway. There are also plans to install a new high friction road surface to improve safety.
The layout of the Edithmead roundabout could also be revised including the introduction of a through lane to increase junction capacity.
A consultation on the proposals has now been launched to help inform the A38 Major Road Network Outline Business Case that will be submitted to central Government later this year.
North Somerset Council executive member for assets and capital delivery Councillor Steve Bridger said: “Many junctions along the A38 are running at capacity with knock-on effects for the safety of road users and pedestrians, as well as the wellbeing of those living nearby and local businesses whose operation depends on an effective and efficient local road network.
“These improvements seek to alleviate pressure points along the A38 and provide active travel plans so that the road can better serve the region.
“It’s also vital the plans consider environmental impacts of the scheme, so we can keep working towards North Somerset Council’s ambitious aims of carbon neutrality by 2030. “
The A38 is a busy route out of Bristol into North Somerset and Somerset and is the main link to Bristol Airport.
Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport Councillor John Woodman said: “We’re really pleased to be working in partnership with North Somerset Council on a package of measures which should make a big difference to those using this route regularly and local communities.
“We have identified what we consider to be the most pressing areas of concern, but of course we need to hear what communities think about this proposal and the key issues for them.”
People can have their say on the plans at www.a38mrn-engagement. com until August 1.