Work is set to commence on June 15 to build a new £4 million roundabout at the Whitnell Corner junction near West Horrington, close to Wells. This critical intersection, where the B3135 meets the B3139 Bath Road just outside the Mendip Hills national landscape, has been a hotspot for traffic collisions.
With a 60mph speed limit from all directions, the junction has experienced 67 collisions over the past 20 years, including 15 serious crashes and one fatality in 2019. Originally scheduled to start on April 27, construction was delayed to finalize adjustments to the roundabout design, including changes to the size and shape of a soak-away and nearby pond. These environmental features will help protect the new roundabout from potential flooding.
Somerset Council’s contractor, Octavius, will carry out the work, which requires a full closure of the junction in all directions until autumn. The revised timeline aims to reopen the road sooner than initially planned, weather permitting.
READ MORE: 60 New Jobs Created as Sherwell Manor Care Home Opens in Taunton
READ MORE: Lucy & Yak Launches Exciting New Pop-Up Store in Bath
Funding for this vital safety upgrade comes entirely from central government grants earmarked specifically for road safety improvements, ensuring the money is dedicated solely to projects like this and not routine road maintenance.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, responsible for transport and waste services, emphasized the importance of the scheme: “This junction has been a priority for some time. The statistics clearly show the urgent need for these improvements. While we acknowledge the construction will cause some disruption, especially to local businesses, we are working to minimize the impact. Ultimately, this project is crucial to significantly lower the risk of death or serious injury at this junction.”
During construction, full 24/7 road closures and diversions will be in place. Roads policing inspector Matt Boiles of Avon and Somerset Constabulary highlighted the importance of design improvements in road safety: “Our officers have attended many serious collisions here. Safer road design, combined with education and enforcement, is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.”
Drivers and residents are encouraged to check Somerset Council’s website for details on diversions and other local roadworks.