The B3191 Cleeve Hill, a vital coastal road between Watchet and Blue Anchor in Somerset, remains closed to motorized traffic this summer following an indefinite shutdown in January 2023 due to coastal erosion concerns. This closure has limited travel options for residents and visitors alike, forcing reliance on a single, 150-year-old bridge over the West Somerset Railway heritage line, impacting local traffic and tourism.
Somerset Council, successor to Somerset County Council since April 2023, is actively pursuing a £40 million bid to secure government funding aimed at reopening the road. The restoration plan involves either making the existing route safer or rerouting it further inland, with the final business case submission due by August 3. The Department for Transport is expected to announce its decision before Christmas.
Despite some political criticism from local Conservatives, including James Wright of the Conservative Rural Forum, who accused the council of mismanagement and risking the funding deadline, the council insists the project remains on schedule. Officials highlight progress in technical preparations and engagement with consultancy firm WSP to develop a comprehensive business case, capturing the economic impact of the closure on Watchet.
READ MORE: Avon and Somerset Police to Acquire Castlewood Office Complex for New 550-Staff Hub
READ MORE: Dramatic Blaze Near South West Aquarium Draws Dozen Firefighters
Since spring 2024, the road has been accessible to pedestrians and cyclists but remains closed to cars, compelling motorists to navigate narrow roads and the A39. Public consultation about permanently closing the road to motor vehicles attracted over 1,000 objections, yet in October 2025, the council confirmed the permanent road closure to motor traffic.
Efforts to reopen the road have garnered cross-party support, including backing from Tiverton and Minehead MP Rachel Gilmour, who raised concerns in the House of Commons regarding the closure’s negative effect on local economic development. Meanwhile, the council continues to assure the community of its commitment to reopening the route as soon as federal funding is secured.
Somerset Council spokesperson stated, “We fully understand how crucial this route is for the community and west Somerset. Our bid preparation is progressing well, and we are on track to submit by the deadline. There has never been any risk of missing it.”