Somerset motorists are contending with a lengthy 17-mile diversion this weekend due to a crucial A-road closure. The A37 near Pensford remains shut following an oil spill that occurred early Thursday morning, prompting safety concerns and extensive repair work.
The incident was first reported around 8am on September 25th at the A37 Chelwood roundabout, close to Pensford. Emergency services responded promptly, closing the road in both directions to facilitate a thorough cleanup after the spill.
By Friday evening, Bath and North East Somerset Council announced that the closure would continue throughout the weekend to allow for essential resurfacing work aimed at restoring the road’s safety.
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In an update posted on X (formerly Twitter), a council spokesperson stated: “Update on A37 between A368 Chelwood roundabout & Pensford: works to replace the surfacing after an oil spill are under way. Our contractors will work through the night and weekend to reopen the road ASAP. Diversions are in place.”
The temporary diversion, outlined on traffic monitoring platform Causeway one.network, forces drivers to take a considerable detour spanning 17 miles—far outmeasuring the half-mile stretch initially affected by the spill.
Drivers travelling from the Chelwood roundabout toward Pensford must divert east along the A368 through Marksbury and Corston, proceed north via the A4 through Keynsham to Brislington, and then loop south through Knowle and past Whitchurch to rejoin the route.
A formal closure notice issued by Bath and North East Somerset Council states: “The A37 New Road, Pensford will be closed to all traffic from its junction with Short Lane to Chelwood roundabout to clear a half-mile fuel spill. This closure is critical for public safety and will last up to five days, with access maintained for local residents and businesses where possible.”
Despite the disruption, officials emphasize the importance of these emergency repairs to prevent further hazards. Traffic monitoring site Inrix advises large vehicles to avoid narrow country lanes and instead use primary routes such as through Marksbury or Chew Magna to navigate around the closure safely.
Motorists are urged to follow signage closely and allow extra travel time while the council and contractors work continuously to complete the cleanup and repair.