IMPORTANT work to upgrade a key route through Chard town centre is due to begin early next month.


Somerset County Council has a duty to keep the county’s roads in good condition and is looking to resurface and improve the A30 Fore Street and High Street as part of its long-term maintenance programme.


This involves removing the old surface of the road to an average depth of 50mm before laying a new material using specialist equipment.


The work will be split into two phases:


Preparatory works are due to start on Monday, July 4 and expected to take four weeks. Any damaged kerbs and water channels will be replaced and the existing drainage system will be upgraded or repaired where needed. Work will take place during daytime hours, 7am to 7pm (excluding weekends).

Fore Street and High Street will remain open throughout this phase, although temporary traffic lights may be required at times in certain locations.


Carriageway resurfacing works will then begin on and are expected to take 10 nights. Due to the narrow width of the road, and to ensure the safety of the workforce and the travelling public, it will be necessary to close the road during working hours, although access will be maintained. Work will take place from 7pm to 7am (excluding weekends), with on-site staff available to assist with any specific requests for access.


Cllr David Fothergill, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “We’ve worked closely with Chard Town Council to plan this work to minimise disruption as much as possible, but please accept my apologies for any inconvenience it may cause.


“Please also remember that this work represents a significant investment in the town. We’re committed to investing in our roads and maintaining them to the highest standards possible with the budgets we have, and I’m sure may people will welcome these improvements.”