Snag in work delays street reopening
An “unforeseen issue” means Keynsham High Street will remain closed 24 hours a day every day and not reopen until the late autumn.
Work to revitalise the town centre started on June 1 and has continued apace but hit a snag after an “unforeseen issue” with pavement depth on the east side of the street.
Bath and North East Somerset Council had planned to install drainage under the pavement, but now it will be placed in the carriageway.
Work on the drainage will begin in early September, alongside the installation of new street furniture, the relocation of the bus stop and delivery of new paving.
These unexpected works mean that sewer works for the housing development in Rock Road have also been delayed, however the council is streesing that Rock Road and Ashton Way will not be closed at the same time as the High Street.
The council is said to be working closely with the Rock Road development’s contractors to find an opportunity for the sewer works to be done at a time that minimises the impact on people accessing Keynsham and does not delay the High Street programme.
The job to repave the west side of the street in new high-quality materials along with re-arranging the Charlton Road junction and installing new street lighting is said to be progressing well.
The scheme is now expected to be completed in the week beginning November 29, ahead of the Christmas trading period.
Cllr Richard Samuel, deputy leader and cabinet member for economic development and resources, said: “We will soon reach the three-month milestone of this important improvement project for Keynsham and much progress has been made.
“However it is often the nature of major construction works that
there will be unforeseen issues causing delays and impacting other local projects.”
He added: “Nevertheless we do appreciate the frustration and inconvenience this causes for residents and businesses. We are working closely with our contractors and the contractors for the Rock Road development to minimise disruption in any way we can.
“Please be reassured that Ashton Way and Rock Road will not be closed while the High Street is closed. We will provide a further update on this as soon as we possibly can. Thank you for your continued patience while we find a way forward.”
The High Street scheme will deliver footpath widening and resurfacing, better signage and
cycling and bus stop facilities on the High Street between Bath Hill and Charlton Road. There will also be new street furniture, street lights, landscaping and trees.
The project is funded by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership through the Local Growth and Getting Building Funds, administered by the West of England Combined Authority.
It is also funded by the combined authority through its Love our High Streets programme.
The council is said to be working closely with traders to minimise disruption and ensure access during trading hours. .
Anyone wishing to contact the council regarding accessibility can email environment&design@bathnes.gov.uk.