Reopening the vital coastal route B3191 between Blue Anchor and Watchet must be a top priority in Somerset’s new local transport plan, say local leaders. The road, closed indefinitely in January 2023 due to coastal erosion concerns, remains off-limits for motor vehicles, impacting transport options for residents and visitors alike.
Somerset Council recently put forward a revised local transport plan focusing on enhancing the county’s roads, railways, walking, and cycling links. However, the crucial B3191 stretch between Blue Anchor and Watchet has yet to receive sufficient attention in the plan, sparking calls for the issue to be addressed more urgently.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, portfolio holder for adults' services, housing, and homelessness, described the closure as a “major transport issue” that affects daily travel, especially since the B3191 served as a vital diversionary route during congestion on the A39 between Minehead and Williton. She urged the council to commit to reopening or redesigning the road, emphasizing the necessity to pursue this goal “at all levels.”
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While pedestrians and cyclists regained access in spring 2024, motorised vehicles remain banned. Despite over 1,000 local objections during consultation, Somerset Council, which replaced the county council in April 2023, confirmed a permanent closure for motor traffic in October 2025. The council is preparing a £37 million bid to the Department for Transport to support efforts to reopen the route.
Local communities feel overlooked, with the B3191 and Blue Anchor barely mentioned in the current transport plan. Residents voice concerns about limited access to essential services like hospitals, colleges, and workplaces. The Minehead and Watchet Bus Users Group highlighted that coastal towns have been “largely ignored despite significant transport needs,” particularly affecting young people and key workers.
Matthew Prince, Somerset’s senior transport and infrastructure officer, acknowledged the importance of improved connectivity and confirmed that community feedback will directly influence future transport strategies. He emphasized plans to engage parish councils through questionnaires seeking input on transport frustrations and priorities to ensure the final strategy reflects residents’ needs.
The updated local transport plan is scheduled for full council approval by the end of the year. Advocates hope it will finally incorporate concrete measures to restore this critical coastal link, benefiting both local communities and visitors.