The B3152 Station Road in Castle Cary, Somerset, has reopened following extensive repairs to a sinkhole, only to encounter further disruptions due to new roadworks.
Problems first arose in July 2021 along the busy route that links the town centre to the railway station and services numerous new housing developments. Temporary traffic lights were installed in July 2024 by Somerset Council between Almsford Close and Victoria Gardens to manage traffic during the ongoing repair works.
The road was fully reopened on Friday, 14 August after several months of closure while the sinkhole was addressed. However, just three days later, on Monday, 17 August, Persimmon Homes Severn Valley set up temporary traffic lights slightly south of the previous sinkhole site to enable a partial road closure.
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These new traffic controls are expected to remain in place until 30 November, potentially causing extended journey times for local residents and rail passengers.
Persimmon Homes obtained planning permission in April to develop the Tor View estate west of Station Road, which will comprise 162 houses, commercial premises and a new primary school. Construction has accelerated since then, despite concerns from residents after large sections of mature hedgerow along the road were removed.
Councillor Henry Hobhouse, representing Castle Cary and surrounding villages, explained that Persimmon is undertaking drainage improvements as part of the development. “Persimmon requested their closure be extended until November, although they were initially advised to complete the work between April and now. They only began the drainage work two weeks ago. The costs of the traffic lights are now being covered by Persimmon,” he said.
For further information on ongoing and upcoming roadworks in Castle Cary, residents are encouraged to visit www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/roadworks-and-travel.
The Persimmon roadworks coincide with this year’s Castle Cary and Ansford Carnival, scheduled for 17 October. The carnival procession concludes near the junction of Station Road and Victoria Gardens, just south of the current works, which should minimise disruptions for participants and spectators alike.
To accommodate the event, Churchfield Drive, Florida Fields, Victoria Gardens and Victoria Park will be closed from 4pm on the day to allow the procession to assemble prior to its start.