Minehead’s MP has stepped up to demand government funding for the reopening of the B3191 Cleeve Hill coastal road, a key artery between Watchet and Blue Anchor. The road, which served as an essential diversion for holidaymakers when the A39 became congested, has been closed indefinitely since January 2023 due to coastal erosion issues identified by Somerset County Council.
With the B3191 closed, residents and visitors are left relying on a single access route into Minehead town centre—a 150-year-old bridge crossing the West Somerset Railway heritage line—raising concerns about traffic bottlenecks and emergency accessibility.
Somerset Council submitted a £40 million bid to the government’s structures fund in late April aimed at reopening the route. This bid has received full backing from Rachel Gilmour, the Liberal Democrat MP representing Tiverton and Minehead, who emphasized the road’s critical role in local economic health.
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During a House of Commons debate on May 18, Mrs. Gilmour highlighted the importance of the route for regional growth, education, and business vitality. She stated, “The lack of rural transport is an absolute blocker for economic development, education, and so many other things. Economic growth is not conjured by debate, but built by political will. My constituents and businesses need a functioning road from Watchet to Blue Anchor, a rebuilt school in Tiverton, and a government that fosters the conditions for enterprise to flourish. To date, the political will has been lacking.”
Mrs. Gilmour’s appeal coincided with the International Monetary Fund’s recent upgrade of the UK’s growth forecast for 2026 to 1%, up from 0.8%. However, the IMF also cautioned about rising inflation and uncertain global influences, mainly linked to tensions between Iran and the USA.
Closing the debate, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby MP stressed the government’s commitment to creating shared prosperity through sustainable growth, jobs, and improved financial security for households. She emphasized that stable and resilient growth is fundamental for families and communities across the UK.
Somerset Council intends to submit its final bid for the structures fund by August 3, with the Department for Transport expected to announce successful projects this autumn. The reopening of the B3191 road remains pivotal for Minehead’s connectivity and economic future.