Somerset Council has confirmed the early reopening of Junction 26 on the M5 motorway and the A38 Chelston Link Road, delighting drivers who faced months of disruption. The major infrastructure project, originally scheduled to keep these routes closed until late September, will now see all slip roads, the roundabout, and the link road reopen overnight between Saturday, September 6 and Sunday, September 7.
This significant acceleration is the result of extended working hours and innovative construction techniques employed by Somerset Council and contractors Heidelberg Materials during the £5.7 million scheme. Although some minor finishing touches will continue after reopening, the full closure will end this weekend, almost a month ahead of plan.
The project replaces worn concrete motorway infrastructure dating back to 1974. Utilizing an eco-friendly technique called rubblization—commonly used in airport runway repairs—the team recycled 7,300 tonnes of existing concrete on-site. This method not only reduced carbon emissions by 200 tonnes but also eliminated over 1,100 lorry trips, minimizing environmental impact.
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Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and waste services, praised the early completion: “We promised to minimize disruption and I’m thrilled the A38 and motorway junction will reopen so soon. Thanks go to our dedicated project team and Heidelberg Materials for making this happen.”
The refurbishment, fully funded by government grants, also included installation of a new drainage system to enhance flood resilience and ease future maintenance. While rubblization was used for much of the road surface, areas beneath overhead bridges required deeper excavation. Innovative use of asphalt kerbs also sped up construction.
Jonathan Hill, National Highways’ route manager, expressed gratitude to drivers and stakeholders: “Somerset Council and their teams should be commended for delivering this vital improvement ahead of schedule, and we thank all road users for their patience.”
In a coordinated effort to avoid clashes with upcoming M5 works and maintain winter access to a nearby gritting depot, the timing of this project was meticulously planned.
Local MP Gideon Amos visited the site recently with Councillor Wilkins and warmly welcomed the news. “I’m pleased to have represented the voices of Wellington businesses throughout this process. By working closely with LibDem colleagues on Somerset Council, we’ve ensured the business park stayed accessible and that the project remains on budget and ahead of time,” he said.
Mr. Amos acknowledged the dedication of workers who pushed through night shifts to meet the accelerated timeline. However, he expressed disappointment over a parliamentary vote that blocked compensation for local businesses impacted by construction. “I’m committed to supporting these businesses, providing guidance on applying for business rates relief,” he added, inviting affected businesses to contact his office for assistance.
The previous closure began on Monday, June 16, causing considerable inconvenience but ultimately delivering vital infrastructure upgrades well in advance of the original schedule.