WEST Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger has pledged his fullest support for efforts to realign the B3191 between Watchet and Blue Anchor.

His backing comes despite a warning from Somerset Council that the odds were stacked against sufficient funds being found.

The road has been closed since January because of the increasing instability of cliffs at Cleeve Hill, but Watchet families say it has dealt a devastating blow to the town’s economy.

Now, a drive is underway to obtain Government approval for a realignment scheme, even though the minimum cost is suggested to be around £30 million – similar to the sum Somerset Council has been considering spending to refurbish a theatre in Yeovil.

Even before a new road bid could be submitted, an estimated £2 million would be needed to put together a robust business case for the scheme.

Watchet’s specially-formed task force is now working with Somerset Council to assemble evidence of the impact on local businesses of the road’s closure.

Cliff erosion close to the B3191 road in Cleeve Hill, Watchet.
Cliff erosion close to the B3191 road in Cleeve Hill, Watchet. (Somerset Council)

Mr Liddell-Grainger has already had preliminary discussions with Ministers over the future of the road and said he would continue to ensure the Department for Transport was kept fully up to speed with work on the business case.

He said many local people had failed to appreciate the complexity of obtaining approval for a major road scheme.

Mr Liddell-Grainger said: “It is not just a question of writing a letter and asking for the money.

“There are hundreds of proposed road schemes all over the country and the only way Ministers can prioritise them is by examining detailed business plans comparing costs with benefits.

“We have to be sure public money is being put to the best possible use.

“I note Somerset Council itself now concedes that the odds are currently stacked against a scheme of this magnitude but that does not mean we should not pursue this campaign.

“We do need to get some indication from the Government of the likely success or otherwise of the new road project before we commit major public funds to a business plan, however.

“I continue to be tremendously impressed by the dedicated teamwork being demonstrated by local people as we move this matter forward and can assure them of my fullest support in continuing to make Government aware of the devastating blow Watchet has suffered through the loss of such a vital road corridor.”