8 Major Transport Projects Set to Transform Somerset in 2026

Somerset residents faced numerous roadworks throughout 2025, and 2026 promises to bring further challenges — but also significant improvements to the county’s transport infrastructure.

From the Dunball “throughabout” in Bridgwater to the Wellington concrete carriageway upgrade, and Chard’s extensive gas and waste water replacements, Somerset’s motorists have frequently experienced delays caused by traffic lights, diversions, and congestion. As the new year begins, commuters, delivery drivers, and local travelers prepare for the next wave of roadworks aimed at enhancing travel across the county.

Below are eight key transport projects slated to reshape Somerset over the next 12 months:

Minehead Road & Dunster Steep Traffic Signals Replacement
The traffic lights at the busy junction of A39 Minehead Road and A396 Dunster Steep, now 30 years old, will be completely replaced starting January 5, 2026. Somerset Council warns that failure to act could cause major disruption. Intelligent temporary traffic lights will be installed during construction, expected to last until April 2026. The contractor Centregreat — fresh off their £10.7m Dunball roundabout upgrade — will handle the extensive excavation and wiring upgrades.
Traffic Signal Upgrades near Clarks Village, Street
Similarly, six pairs of aging traffic signals near the Clarks Village shopping center in Street will be replaced by council contractor Octavius as part of a county-wide traffic signal modernization project. The scheme also includes building a new shared-use path for cyclists and pedestrians along the A39, funded by central government. Completion is projected for early May 2026.
Taunton Bus and Coach Transport Hub
Somerset Council has secured nearly £3.8 million in government grants to build a state-of-the-art transport hub in Taunton, replacing the now-closed Tower Street facility. Construction contracts were awarded in December 2025, with the hub set to open in August 2026. It will feature six bus stops with shelters, two coach stops, layover bays, real-time information boards, an indoor waiting room with accessible toilets, and a pedestrianized outdoor area with seating, cycling facilities, and new crossings.
Bridgwater’s Celebration Mile Review
Following controversial one-way systems implemented along the Celebration Mile—including Eastover, East Quay, and Salmon Parade—residents and businesses have expressed frustration over increased congestion. After a petition signed by over 5,800 people, Somerset Council voted in December 2025 to conduct a full, four-month review of traffic flow and parking on these roads. Any proposed changes will be considered by late May 2026, with potential works over the summer.
Coal Orchard Footbridge Replacement in Taunton
To improve safety and accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, the narrow Coal Orchard footbridge will be replaced with a four-meter-wide bridge compliant with Department for Transport guidelines. The new bridge, funded partly by the Future High Streets Fund and local infrastructure levies, will feature a longer, shallower ramp. Completion is expected by late summer 2026.
A38 Corridor Improvements
Somerset and North Somerset Councils have received Department for Transport backing to upgrade ten schemes along the A38 corridor between the Edithmead roundabout and Bristol Airport, improving journey times and unlocking development sites. Four schemes lie within Somerset and include junction and traffic flow enhancements. Preparatory works for the Edithmead roundabout are slated to begin by late January 2026, with full works commencing later in the year.
Langport Rural Transport Hub
Initially planned for Somerton, the rural transport hub project has shifted to Langport due to conservation area restrictions and funding limitations. Langport, strategically located near key travel routes, will benefit from this integrated bus hub supporting demand-responsive transport trials. Work is anticipated to start within the next 12 months, though no exact date has been set.
Staplegrove Urban Extension Road Upgrades
To support the construction of 1,628 new homes and commercial spaces in the Staplegrove area of Taunton, Somerset Council approved the replacement of the Silk Mills roundabout with traffic signals and widening of Staplegrove Road. Major works began in October 2025 and will last approximately 60 weeks, ensuring two-way traffic flow is maintained. The project also includes new pedestrian and cycle paths, traffic lanes, and retaining walls to protect nearby properties. Completion is expected by late March 2027.

While the upcoming projects will bring temporary inconveniences, they promise substantial long-term benefits to Somerset’s transport network — making travel safer, smoother, and more efficient across the county.