Plans to transform the busy A370 Smallway junction in Congresbury, North Somerset, have received approval. This significant upgrade aims to reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety, and strengthen public transport connections, aligning with future road network needs.
The scheme features a widened and extended left-hand lane heading towards Yatton from Weston-super-Mare, increasing junction capacity. New traffic signals will be installed on all approaches, including left and right turns to Yatton, to optimize vehicle movement.
To prioritize safety, the stop line for vehicles traveling towards Weston-super-Mare will be moved forward, alongside the introduction of signal-controlled pedestrian crossings. The eastern side of the crossroads will be closed to through traffic from the A370 Bristol Road, creating a safer, pedestrian-friendly zone for cyclists, pedestrians, and those with mobility needs.
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The project also extends a full-time bus lane coming from Bristol, supported by priority signals. Bus routes such as X1, X5, A3, and WESTlink will benefit from faster, more reliable services.
Pedestrian infrastructure will be enhanced by widening the western footway on the A370 and removing the less-used eastern footway between Smallway and Kent Road. Road resurfacing work will be completed as part of the scheme, maximizing the local highways maintenance budget.
This plan emerged from public feedback gathered during extensive local consultations in winter 2024, addressing community concerns by simplifying traffic patterns and improving crossing accessibility.
Cllr Hannah Young, North Somerset Council’s executive member for highways and transport, commented: “We’re excited to move forward with these improvements at the A370 Smallway junction. The enhancements will ensure smoother traffic flow, better bus infrastructure, and safer, more accessible pedestrian routes. We’ll maintain close engagement with residents throughout the next design and construction phases.”
Funded by the UK Government through the Bus Service Improvement Plan, the allocated budget is strictly for transport upgrades.
Additionally, starting in May, nearby bus stops in Congresbury will be upgraded. Improvements may include shelters on Weston Road and Bristol Road, featuring recycled plastic seating with armrests, accessible spaces for wheelchairs and pushchairs, LED and solar-powered lighting, living green roofs, and digital real-time information displays.
A legal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) will be published about 12 weeks before construction begins, offering residents a final opportunity to submit formal feedback. Details on construction start dates and traffic management will be announced in the coming months.