Central government funding could soon support the creation of a safer crossing at one of Glastonbury’s most heavily trafficked locations—the Wirral Park roundabout, commonly known as the B&Q roundabout.
This key junction connects the A39 between Street and Wells with the A361 towards Pilton, while also providing access to important local businesses such as Tesco, Travelodge, KFC drive-thru, and various other commercial establishments.
Since January, the Glastonbury Safe Crossings Campaign has advocated for a new pedestrian and cyclist crossing near the roundabout to improve access for residents of the nearby Millstream housing estate. Campaigners have expressed deep concern, stating in February that without this crossing, “it is inevitable that someone will get killed.”
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Somerset Council recently confirmed plans to conduct a feasibility study to explore possible crossing options, signaling that successful proposals could secure funding from central government.
At the council’s executive committee meeting in Taunton on August 6, campaigner Susannah Clemence highlighted strong community backing, noting that almost 300 people had signed a petition in favor of the crossing. She emphasized the urgent need near the KFC and Travelodge area, where fast, heavy traffic cuts off residential neighborhoods and major destinations, including supermarkets, hotels, the manufacturing district, bus stops, the skatepark, Wearyall Hill, and the walking and cycling route to Street.
Ms. Clemence explained the current dangers faced by pedestrians and cyclists, emphasizing that many—particularly those too young, elderly, or without access to a car—must risk crossing busy roads daily for schooling, work, shopping, or catching buses to surrounding towns like Bridgwater, Taunton, and Yeovil. The danger is so significant that residents with cars often opt to drive just a few yards rather than walk, which in turn worsens congestion, pollution, and hazards.
Before its dissolution in April 2023, Mendip District Council developed a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) that identified the need for safer crossings near Ranger Road and improvements around Wirral Park roundabout for pedestrians and cyclists. The new proposals align with this plan’s priorities.
Ms. Clemence requested clarification on the scope, details, timeline, and specific junction areas to be included in the council’s upcoming feasibility study. She also asked about procedures and protocols related to securing external funding and coordinating roles between local authorities.
Feasibility studies for such infrastructure typically cost between £4,000 and over £20,000 and can take one to five months depending on complexity.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for transport and waste services, commended Ms. Clemence for her effective community engagement, which helped ensure public support for the project. He noted the council is currently reviewing the study’s scope and plans to consult with stakeholders once finalized.
He added, “The study will identify preferred crossing solutions, outline a development timeline for detailed designs, and provide cost estimates.” Wilkins also confirmed that Active Travel England is funding the feasibility stage, and that any implemented crossing could be eligible for future government funding. He expressed eagerness to collaborate on this critical safety initiative.