Busy stretch of A303 to close this weekend

A BUSY section of the A303 in Somerset will be fully closed this weekend. The closure will be in place between the Hazlegrove and Podimore roundabouts as the temporary bridge is removed at Steart Hill.

The road will be closed from 10pm on Friday, November 11, to 5am on Monday, November 14 to allow for the bridge to be safely removed. Diversions will be in place for motorists via the A359 and the A37.

The bridge has been used to minimise the impact of construction on motorists and residents, with its removal marking the end of the first major stage of construction on the A303 Sparkford to Ilchester scheme. It has been in place for 30 weeks, allowing for 900,000 tonnes of earth to be moved – the equivalent of 16 Prince of Wales bridges.

The £135 million scheme between Sparkford and Ilchester hopes to promote economic growth in this area of Somerset, as well as reduce journey times to the South West.

Elliot Hayes, National Highways’ Senior Project Manager, said: “The removal of the temporary bridge marks a significant milestone for this major scheme, which is incredibly important for Somerset’s future and vital to the A303/ A358 corridor.

“It’s exciting to see how work has progressed, with the major earthworks now completed with minimal disruption. You can now really start to see the scheme take shape and we are excited to continue pressing ahead to finalise this vital route. We will ensure motorists are fully informed of diversions and suggested routes via signing and media. We advise drivers to plan ahead.”