Somerset’s aging bridges, tunnels, and flyovers could soon see much-needed repairs thanks to a new £1 billion funding initiative announced by the Department for Transport (DfT). This significant investment targets local authorities across England, enabling them to fix “crumbling bridges, falling flyovers, and deteriorating tunnels” that have long been neglected.
The council is expected to submit its bid within weeks, though it has yet to pinpoint specific structures it would prioritize if successful. The fund is designed to help councils take on projects otherwise unaffordable without major partners such as National Highways or Network Rail, as the funding applies only to structures fully owned by local authorities. This excludes major routes like the M5, A303, or A36, which are managed nationally.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander MP emphasized the urgency of the repairs: “Crumbling bridges and worn-out flyovers have been patched up rather than properly fixed for far too long, causing frustrating weight limits and lengthy diversions. Every closed bridge is a barrier to growth – a blocked route to work, a delayed delivery, a family unable to reach the services they depend on.”
READ MORE: Bats Halt National Trust’s New Car Park Plans at Cheddar Gorge
READ MORE: 900 ‘Much-Needed’ Student Flats Approved for University of Bath
To assist councils in preparing their bids, the DfT has enlisted consultancy WSP to offer complimentary guidance and support, easing the application process and financial burden. WSP Managing Director Steve Denston highlighted the critical need for the fund: “Local highways structures are aging and often perform beyond their design limits, exacerbated by the increasing impacts of extreme weather. This initiative marks a vital commitment to securing infrastructure that fosters economic growth and community wellbeing.”
Councils must submit draft applications by June 19, with feedback provided ahead of the final August 3 deadline. Successful projects will be announced in the autumn, with a completion requirement set for March 2030.
Somerset Council spokespersons conveyed their commitment to exploring the funding opportunity thoroughly: “We are currently reviewing the guidance and identifying schemes where this fund could address long-standing issues. We will focus on projects that align best with government criteria and deliver the greatest benefits to residents.”
This fund represents a crucial chance for Somerset to restore vital infrastructure, ensuring safer, more reliable connectivity for communities and supporting the region’s economic future.