Somerset Council is set to enhance nearly 100 roads across the county this summer through an extensive surface dressing programme. This maintenance effort aims to protect the road network, improve driving conditions, and extend the lifespan of well-maintained routes.
Surface dressing is a proven technique involving the application of a bitumen layer followed by a coating of stone chippings, which is then compacted by rolling. This process seals the road surface, boosts skid resistance, and prevents water infiltration — a key factor in reducing pothole formation.
The timing of the work depends heavily on favorable weather conditions, so schedules may shift or extend beyond summer if necessary. Most surface dressing projects are efficiently completed within a day or just a few hours by the council’s contractor, Keily Bros. Larger sections might take between one to three days to finish.
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Traffic is usually managed using stop-and-go boards, allowing roads to remain open during the works. However, temporary road closures could be implemented at narrow locations to ensure safety.
Somerset Council has published a comprehensive list of all roads included in this year’s surface dressing programme. These improvements reflect the council’s commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable highway network.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, emphasized the importance of this routine maintenance: “Each summer, this programme helps keep our roads safe and efficient. Surface dressing acts like repainting wooden windows — regular upkeep is crucial to prolonging their life.”
For further details, residents can visit the official Somerset Council website.