Drivers heading to Minehead will encounter up to four months of roadworks starting after Christmas due to essential upgrades at the key junction of the A39 Minehead Road and the A396 Dunster Steep.
The traffic lights at this intersection, which have served the community for 30 years, are nearing the end of their lifespan and require urgent replacement to prevent potential failures and significant disruption.
Somerset Council announced that the overhaul will commence on January 5, 2026, with work expected to continue through to the end of April. To manage traffic during this period, “intelligent temporary traffic lights” designed to replicate the current signals’ performance will be used, aiming to minimise delays.
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This upgrade is part of a wider county programme that has already enhanced traffic signal systems across Bridgwater, Shepton Mallet, Taunton, and Yeovil. The project involves comprehensive excavation to remove outdated ducting and wiring, as well as replacing the traffic light heads.
Contracted to Centregreat, the firm behind the recent £10.7 million improvement of the Dunball roundabout near the M5, the team will prioritise keeping disruption to a minimum, particularly during peak times such as school drop-offs and pick-ups.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, emphasised the importance of the upgrade: “This is a busy junction, and we are pleased to carry out this vital work to replace equipment at the end of its life, ensuring the signals remain reliable for years to come.”
In addition to signal improvements, previous upgrades have included enhancements to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. For example, the 2023 improvements at the A38 Broadway junction in Bridgwater contributed to the town’s Celebration Mile walking and cycling route. Similarly, Somerset Council completed work in July on a section of walking and cycling paths west of the Dunster Steep junction, complementing earlier improvements near the Seaward Way roundabout.
Active Travel England committed £1.5 million in December 2023 to extend the route along the A39 as far as Carhampton, although no timeline has yet been provided for this work.
Local residents and business owners are invited to learn more about the plans at a public drop-in event scheduled for Wednesday, December 10. It will be held at the Dunster Tithe Barn on Priory Garden, Dunster, from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm.