A crucial crossing in Burnham-on-Sea is undergoing a four-week roadworks project to replace outdated pedestrian signals. Somerset Council, continuing its programme to upgrade traffic signal systems nearing the end of their service life, has expanded its efforts following recent work on key sections of the A39 in Dunster and Street.
The current project focuses on the pedestrian crossing at the B3140 Love Lane, adjacent to Burnham-on-Sea’s Tesco supermarket. Work started on Monday, January 12, with motorists advised to expect delays and plan accordingly.
Replacing the lights involves extensive excavation to remove old ducting and wiring, followed by installation of new traffic light heads. Temporary traffic lights will be operational throughout the duration, likely causing additional congestion during peak hours.
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Once the new signals are installed, the council plans to resurface this section of road, necessitating an evening or overnight road closure, with specific details to be announced closer to the date.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, stated: “This work is essential to replace end-of-life equipment and ensure the signals serve us reliably for the next 30 years. We understand there will be disruption during peak times, and the team is committed to minimizing inconvenience.”
The upgrade forms part of the Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), which evaluates the active travel network and prioritizes projects to enhance safe walking, wheeling, and cycling opportunities as government funding permits.
The crossing is located along ‘Route 3’ of the LCWIP, a corridor running along Burnham-on-Sea’s eastern residential edge, connecting Stoddens Lane, Love Lane, Frank Foley Parkway, and Pepperall Road, linking into Burnham Road (B3139).
The plan advocates for improved crossings near major junctions, including the Tesco roundabout and Burnham Road/Pepperall Road junction, as well as the construction of continuous cycle tracks along Love Lane, Frank Foley Parkway, and Pepperall Road. A proposed cycleway between Pepperall Road and Morland Road aims to connect cyclists to ‘quietways’ through the Morland Estate towards Apex Park.
In addition to these improvements, the local road network is set to face significant disruption over the next 12 to 18 months due to plans to enhance the Edithmead roundabout, a key link between Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge, and junction 22 of the M5. The council expects to appoint a contractor by late January to begin preparatory works ahead of the full scheme launch later in the year.