A HUGE multi-million pound upgrade of the A303 in South Somerset could lead to a huge business boom in the district.

That is the view of local leaders, who are asking the public to take part in a consultation over the plans now.

Highways England has begun consulting on proposals to improve the route from Sparkford to Ilchester and create 30 miles of dual carriageway between Mere and South Petherton.

The improvements are part of the A30/A303/A358 Improvement Project, which also includes plans to upgrade the A303 and A30 near Honiton, and A358 east of Southfields roundabout, and duelling and construction of a tunnel near Stonehenge.

Ric Pallister, leader of South Somerset District Council, said: “As the major strategic route to and from London, any improvements to the A303 can only be good for the economy and businesses of South Somerset.

“We have waited a very long time for the actions that have been promised over the past two decades and I hope this time it will be more than just drawings and consultation.

“The problem is that so many promises have been made and broken in the past that it will not be real until we actually see some diggers on the ground that this dream will be believed.

“The Ilminster by-pass will remain a serious bottleneck and the dualling of this section is a vital part of the route.”

Somerset County Council says the project could provide 21,400 jobs, a £41.6 billion boost to the economy and £1.9 billion in transport benefits from reduced journey times.

An upgrade could also prevent more than 1,800 fatal or serious injuries over 60 years and reduce carbon emissions by nine per cent.

South Somerset MP Marcus Fysh said: “The publication of the plans is a very positive development and we are a step closer to seeing much-needed improvements that will help to end traffic problems on one of our busiest routes and provide quicker, safer and more reliable journeys for drivers.

“It is vitally important we get this right, so I would encourage all residents to check out the plans, attend a public exhibition and have a say.”

Cllr David Fothergill, cabinet member for highways and transport at SCC, said: “We worked extremely hard over a number of years to put the A303 and the A358 at the top of the Government’s agenda and are working closely with them as these plans are developed.

“Highways England has now reached the crucial consultation stage and I urge all local people to let them know what you think.”

The consultation period runs to March 29. Highways England has organised three public information events for residents to find out more detail about the plans.

They are being held in Sparkford Inn function room on February 23 from noon until 8.30pm, at David Hall, West Camel on February 25 from 10am until 6pm, and at Queen Camel Village Hall on March 10 from 10am until 5pm.

A separate consultation on a tunnel for the A303 near Stonehenge is being held. Details on upgrading the A358 from Taunton to Ilminster are to be published shortly.