The B3191 Cleeve Hill coastal road, a vital link between Watchet and Blue Anchor, remains closed to vehicles this summer, although efforts to reopen it are progressing. The road was shut indefinitely in January 2023 due to concerns over coastal erosion, leaving residents and visitors reliant on a single, older route through Watchet.
This closure has put strain on local travel and commerce. The road historically served as a crucial diversion when the nearby A39 between Minehead and Williton became congested. Since the closure, only a 150-year-old bridge over the West Somerset Railway heritage line connects the area, limiting traffic flow.
Somerset Council, which replaced Somerset County Council in April 2023, announced plans in April to submit a £40 million bid to the government’s structures fund. The bid aims to either improve the current road’s safety or reroute it further inland to avoid erosion risks. The final submission deadline is August 3, with the Department for Transport expected to make a decision before the end of the year.
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Despite some accusations from Conservative figures, including Exmoor resident James Wright, that the council might miss this deadline or lack commitment, the council has firmly denied these claims, assuring that preparations are advancing well.
Partial reopening has already occurred: the road is open to pedestrians and cyclists as of spring 2024. However, motor vehicles must still use the longer A39 route. In October 2025, the council confirmed the road’s permanent closure to motorised vehicles, following a consultation that saw over 1,000 local objections.
Political figures from both the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have advocated for reopening the road, either independently or as part of the proposed West Somerset tidal lagoon project. Tiverton and Minehead MP Rachel Gilmour labeled the closure a significant barrier to economic growth and urged government action in the House of Commons.
Internal communications referenced by Mr. Wright indicate ongoing efforts to develop a thorough business case, including engaging consultants WSP to capture the economic impact of the closure on Watchet. Despite concerns raised about engagement plans, the council maintains that technical work is on track.
Somerset Council remains committed to meeting the government’s deadline and emphasizes the importance of the road’s reopening for the local community. A council spokesperson stated, “We fully understand how crucial this is for the community and west Somerset, and have been lobbying for this since the road had to close.”