A MULTI-million programme to renew traffic signals at Somerset's junctions and pedestrian crossings reaches Yeovil in February.

Somerset County Council is investing £11.6million replacing signals at the end of their working life with safer, more eco-friendly units.

The alternative is the equipment fails, causing significant and lengthier disruption.

In Bridgwater, signals work on Westonzoyland Road recently finished, while work was completed in the autumn on several junctions in Taunton.

The council’s contractor Centregreat will work on three crossings and three key junctions.

The junction signal refurbishments on Lysander Road are:

  • West Hendford;
  • Pine Tree Avenue;
  • Forest Hill.

The crossings are:

  • Lyde Road – adjacent to Herblay Close;
  • Sherborne Road - adjacent to St Michael’s Avenue;
  • Ilchester Road – opposite Yeovil College.

The new signals should improve traffic flow and provide safer, better access for cyclists and pedestrians.

During the work, temporary signals will be operating at the junctions and crossings. Existing pedestrian and cycling routes will be maintained throughout.

Cllr John Woodman, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “We’re pleased this major programme has now reached Yeovil, which demonstrates our commitment to investing in the future of the county’s road network and infrastructure.

“We know these are busy routes and this will cause disruption, which is why we're breaking the schedule into manageable sections, making sure we get underway at what is a quieter time of year, while many people are still working from home.

“Our team is working closely with local businesses and the community to ensure they have all the information they need, and disruption is kept to a minimum.

“It’s vital we get on with this work and replace the signals – doing nothing just isn’t an option.

“At the same time, we’re making life easier at these junctions and crossings for cyclists and pedestrians on their way to school or work every day.”

An approximate work schedule, which depends on variables such as weather, supply chains and the potential for emergency utility works, is:

  • Week commencing February 14, work begins at Ilchester Road pedestrian crossing;
  • This will be followed by the Sherborne Road crossing, Lyde Road crossing and Pine Tree Avenue signals.
  • Work is expected to start on the West Hendford and Forest Hill Junctions later in the year.
  • Work moves to Wells, Shepton Mallet and Frome later in 2022 and early 2023.