A DROP-in event is to be held next week for residents, businesses, and community leaders in Watchet to discuss concerns around the closure of the B3191 road at Cleeve Hill. 

Somerset County Council, supported by Somerset West and Taunton Council, is running the session in Watchet’s Phoenix Centre on Thursday, March 23, from 4 pm to 7 pm.

The B3191 was closed in January following the results of a geotechnical survey showing a subsidence risk in the area.

More detailed inspections revealed further movement was inevitable and it would be impossible to safely reopen the road without major intervention, meaning it was likely to remain closed indefinitely.

The drop-in event will offer people an opportunity to talk to council officers about issues affecting businesses and the surrounding communities following the loss of the important route.

A geotechnical specialist will be joining the county council’s highways team to help with queries people may have about the need to close the road.

There will be an opportunity to cover a range of other inquiries and concerns, including:

  • Road safety and highways issues arising on the surrounding network due to increased volume of traffic

  • Economic impact on businesses

  • Community transport options, including a link bus service

  • Potential for active travel alternative routes

  • Possible options for a new route should funding become available

  • Measures to support and promote Watchet

The county team is continuing to explore the possibility of applying for Government funding to potentially establish a new route, but it was thought the option was highly unlikely to materialise due to the huge expense involved and practical difficulties in saving the cliff.

County council transport portfolio holder Cllr Mike Rigby said: “We know the loss of the B3191 is having an impact on residents and businesses.

“That is why we want to meet people to hear their concerns and discuss what might be possible in terms of support.

“We are not giving up on a future scheme to provide a revised route, our team is continuing to explore all options with Government and to try to access funding.

“But we need to be realistic about the likelihood of that happening in the near future.

“That is why we want to work constructively with the Watchet Task Force, which includes Watchet Town Council, Watchet Chamber of Trade (WACET), as well as with Old Cleeve and Carhampton parish councils, and all local elected members, to understand how we can support businesses and residents.”