Somerset Council has issued a formal apology following significant delays and long queues on the A39 near Minehead, caused by ongoing roadworks at the Dunster Steep junction. The council commenced upgrading and replacing traffic signals at this critical intersection—where the A39 between Minehead and Williton meets the A396 to Tiverton via Exmoor National Park—on January 5.
Motorists and local residents have reported extended tailbacks on both the A39 into Minehead and Carhampton. In response, local resident Lee Cobley created the Minehead Traffic Monitor website to provide real-time updates on the delays.
The council attributed the disruption primarily to damage sustained by a key sensor during Storm Goretti, alongside other technical issues affecting the new traffic light system. These challenges have compounded traffic slowdowns, prompting the council to apologise for the inconvenience and confirm that efforts are underway to mitigate disruption as the project continues, with completion expected in late April.
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“We are sorry for the disruption and inconvenience caused over the past two weeks,” a council spokesperson stated. “While it is always challenging during the early stages of such a scheme to minimise disruption, we are implementing a range of measures to keep queues manageable and are closely monitoring traffic flows.”
To improve traffic conditions, manual control of the Dunster traffic lights has been implemented during peak hours since January 13. This approach will continue, including priority given to westbound traffic towards Butlins in Minehead to ease holidaymaker congestion. Two-way traffic will be maintained from 8 pm on Fridays across the weekend and during weekdays whenever possible, with manual controls used to manage peak times requiring one-way traffic.
From January 19, the council will continue two-way traffic management, prioritising westbound flow to Butlins on Mondays and Fridays.
Syed Shah, the scheme’s public liaison officer, highlighted ongoing efforts to refine traffic management: “After consulting stakeholders and considering feedback, we have redesigned traffic light phases and management strategies. Please note that closures and management plans may change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.”
The council, along with contractor Centregreat, remains committed to minimising disruption while completing this vital upgrade.