YEOVIL NEWS: Massive road scheme moves closer

A MAJOR £12m scheme to upgrade one of Yeovil’s key transport routes and unlock land for housing and employment took another step forward today (Wednesday, October 22, 2014).

The multi-million-pound Western Corridor scheme has been designed to accommodate new residential and business developments planned for the town.

The improvements to junctions along Western Avenue and Bunford Lane, and the A3088 between Copse Road and the Lysander Road roundabout, aim to ease congestion on the roads and improve things for cyclists and pedestrians.

Members of Somerset County Council’s Cabinet today voted to allocate £250,000 of capital funds and delegate the necessary powers so that land can be purchased.

It is an important next step which means work could start next year. The designs have been finalised and consulted on, and the business case for funding has already been agreed with the Local Enterprise Partnership. They will make a final decision in July 2015 once a final tender price has been agreed and confirmation received that work is ready to start.

The project will be funded by developer contributions as well as the grant from the Department for Transport.

Cllr Harvey Siggs, Somerset County Council’s highways spokesman, said: “The Yeovil Western Corridor scheme will transform a key route into town, helping to ease traffic congestion and improving access for pedestrians and cyclists.

“It could also allow some significant developments to go ahead – providing new homes, jobs and potentially an economic boost to the whole of South Somerset.

“I am working closely with local members to develop the scheme and this latest decision is important and now the hard work continues as we aim to purchase all the necessary land so that work can begin as soon as funding is secured.”

Tags:
News.