8 Major Transport Projects Set to Transform Somerset by 2026

Somerset residents have endured significant roadworks throughout 2025, and 2026 promises more of the same—but with the prospect of meaningful improvements to the local transport network.

From the Dunball “throughabout” in Bridgwater to Wellington’s concrete carriageway overhaul and Chard’s essential gas and wastewater upgrades, Somerset motorists have faced delays, temporary traffic signals, and frustrating diversions. As we enter 2026, daily commuters, delivery drivers, and travelers are braced for continued disruptions, but many of these projects aim to enhance travel for years to come.

Here are eight major infrastructure schemes slated for Somerset in the coming year:

Replacement of Traffic Signals at A39 Minehead Road and A396 Dunster Steep The current traffic signals, over 30 years old, will be replaced starting January 5, 2026, due to the risk of failure causing major disruption. Centregreat, who recently upgraded the Dunball roundabout, will lead the work, including excavation to install new ducting, wiring, and modern signal heads. Intelligent temporary traffic lights will manage flows through April 2026. While inconvenience is expected, Somerset Council emphasizes the importance of this upgrade for reliable, long-term traffic management.
Traffic Signal Upgrades Near Clarks Village Shopping Centre, Street Similar to the Dunster project, six sets of outdated traffic signals will be replaced by early May 2026, overseen by contractor Octavius. The upgrade is part of a county-wide traffic signal improvement program and includes creating a new shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists along the A39. Evening and overnight road closures will be required near the Westway and Street roundabouts to complete surfacing. The council stresses efforts to minimize disruption despite the busy location.
New Bus and Coach Transport Hub in Taunton Somerset Council will build a new transport hub to replace the obsolete Tower Street facility, funded through a multi-year bus service improvement plan. Due for completion in August 2026, the hub will feature six drive-in, drive-out bus stops with shelters, two coach stops on Castle Way, layover bays, passenger amenities including real-time info boards, indoor waiting areas, accessible toilets, and solar panels. The hub aims to enhance connectivity and passenger experience significantly.
Review and Potential Revision of Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile Traffic Changes Following local backlash over one-way traffic schemes and lost parking on East Quay and Salmon Parade along Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile, the council has committed to a full review expected to conclude by late summer 2026. Any proposed changes will undergo formal processes and public consultation before potential implementation, aiming to balance traffic flow, safety, and local business needs.
Replacement of Coal Orchard Footbridge in Taunton The current narrow footbridge will be replaced with a new four-meter-wide bridge, compliant with Department for Transport guidelines, allowing safe shared use by pedestrians and cyclists. Funded largely through the Future High Streets Fund and supplemented by housing developer contributions, the project will enhance access between Taunton’s town centre, theatre, and cycle route 3. Completion is targeted for late summer 2026.
Improvements to the A38 Corridor Between Edithmead and Bristol Airport Somerset and North Somerset Councils have secured Department for Transport funding for ten upgrades—including four within Somerset boundaries—aimed at reducing congestion, improving journey times to the airport, and unlocking development sites. Work is expected to begin after the approval of around £16 million in funding by May 2026, with preparatory works starting early that year.
Langport Rural Transport Hub Development Originally planned for Somerton, Somerset Council shifted the £510,000 rural transport hub to Langport due to conservation area constraints. Strategically located on active travel and tourist routes, Langport’s hub will integrate with ongoing digital demand responsive transport trials. Though no start date is set, construction is anticipated within the next 12 months, subject to central government funding conditions.
Staplegrove Road Widening and Silk Mills Roundabout Upgrade, Taunton To provide access to the new Staplegrove urban extension—comprising over 1,600 homes and commercial space—Staplegrove Road will be widened and the Silk Mills roundabout replaced with traffic lights. Work started in late 2025 and is expected to last about 60 weeks, maintaining two-way traffic as much as possible. The upgrade includes new pedestrian and cycle paths, a large retaining wall, and traffic flow enhancements, with completion anticipated by late March 2027.

While 2026 will bring challenges from ongoing roadworks, these critical infrastructure projects promise lasting benefits that will improve travel safety, efficiency, and connectivity throughout Somerset.