The government’s latest road investment strategy, published on March 26 by the Department for Transport (DfT), has sparked disappointment in Somerset as no major new road projects have been allocated funding within the county. The third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) sets out the government’s priorities for England’s roads up to 2031, highlighting significant improvements across the South West. However, Somerset will not benefit from new schemes during this five-year period, leaving persistent congestion issues on key routes like the M5 and A303 unaddressed.
While the strategy includes ambitious projects such as a new dual carriageway on the A417 near Gloucester and upgrades to junction 28 of the M5 near Cullompton, Somerset residents will see little change. The only scheme identified within Somerset Council’s area is the recently completed upgrade of the A303 stretch between Podimore and Sparkford roundabouts. Nearby schemes outside Somerset include safety programmes on the A303 west of Marsh in Devon and the A36 east of Frome in Wiltshire.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander MP highlighted the strategy as a critical investment to modernize the country’s infrastructure and secure better journeys across the South West—from Southampton to Exeter. Yet Somerset’s exclusion underscores ongoing challenges for local motorists and businesses reliant on reliable road networks.
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National Highways supported the strategy, with executive director Elliot Shaw emphasizing that well-maintained roads boost economic growth, keep communities connected, and inspire investor confidence. However, previous plans to dual the A358 between Taunton and Ilminster were scrapped by Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP in October 2024 due to concerns over value for money.
Local political pressure continues, with Yeovil MP Adam Dance advocating for upgrades to the Southfields roundabout and dual carriageway extensions on the A303 between Ilminster and South Petherton. Unfortunately, these improvements have not been incorporated into RIS3.
The plan also excludes the proposed M5 junction 22a, which is essential to serve the £4bn Agratas gigafactory near Puriton and Woolavington. Somerset Council’s Gravity enterprise zone programme director, Ian Gray, confirmed ongoing discussions with National Highways and the appointment of Costain as the contractor tasked with advancing the project. However, detailed designs have yet to be shared with the council.
Though RIS3 omits smaller-scale projects, some local upgrades are underway through alternative funding. Notably, the £6.4 million Edithmead roundabout improvement in Highbridge will proceed, supported by the DfT’s major road network fund.
Overall, while the government’s road investment strategy prioritizes regional growth and infrastructure renewal, Somerset remains on the sidelines for major road enhancements, prolonging infrastructure challenges for residents and businesses alike.