SOMERSET NEWS: Vital junction work gets started

THE upgrade of one of Bridgwater’s busiest junctions to improve traffic flow in the town is now underway.

Somerset County Council has started its revamp of the junction at East Quay and The Clink to improve pedestrian and cyclist crossings and install a new traffic light system.

The layout of the junction is also being redesigned, with the introduction of right-turn green arrows from both The Clink and The Bridge approaches.

Engineers will make use of workers, equipment, material suppliers and tipping facilities from the Bridgwater area where possible.

As part and parcel of the works, the East Quay north and south approach roads to the junction along with The Clink are set to be resurfaced, improving their condition for drivers.

Once the work is complete, cyclists and walkers will be able to navigate the East Quay junction more safely, and cross without stopping all traffic, making it far more efficient. More traffic will also be able to pass through it.

PHOTO - RIGHT: Somerset County Council's highways spokesman Cllr Harvey Siggs.

The new traffic light system will work on an extra low voltage supply (ELV) and use LED lights to reduce the Council’s carbon footprint and cost to the taxpayer.

This timely package of improvements to replace and upgrade the crossing and traffic light system comes at a crucial point for the Bridgwater junction.

If left any later and the signalling of the junction experienced a major fault, it would be beyond repair because of its age.

The project is expected to complete in February 2015.

Cllr Harvey Siggs, the council’s highways spokesman, said: “As ever we’re very grateful for the patience and understanding of Bridgwater town’s residents throughout this vital project.

“These works will increase the capacity of the junction, make things safer for cyclists and pedestrians, and are a reflection of our ongoing commitment to investing in our fantastic Carnival town.

“To any concerned Carnivalites, you can rest easy – the council has planned for its works to be put on hold for Bridgwater Carnival on Saturday, November 1, 2014.”

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