Work on essential drainage improvements to solve long-standing flooding problems will begin on Monday November 6 and is due to be completed by Thursday November 30 – the day before the road will be heavy with Dunster by Candlelight traffic.
This final phase of work, which started in 2013, should further reduce the risk of flooding during times of heavy rain.
A county council spokesman said: “Due to the nature of the work and the narrow road, a temporary road closure will be required to keep the workforce and travelling public safe. Overnight road closures were considered but ruled out on grounds of safety.
“To minimise disruption for commuters and school transport, the road will only be closed during off peak hours – from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 3.30pm. Temporary traffic lights will be in place outside these times.”
The diversion route will be unsuitable for vehicles over 18 tonnes or 9.5m in length so lorries and coaches will be escorted through the works during two periods each day: from 11am to 11.30am and 1pm to 1.30pm. Cars and light vehicles should follow the diversion. and will not be permitted through the site at these times.
There will also be overnight resurfacing work on the A39 near Washford Cross which will take place during the week beginning Monday November 20.
The A39 east of Washford Cross will be closed from 7pm to 7am on November 20-21with the A39 west of Washford Cross closed from 7pm to 7am on November 22 to 24.
Cllr John Woodman, county council cabinet member for highways, said: “These two schemes represent significant investment in a very important road, but unfortunately some short-term disruption is unavoidable.
“We’re doing our very best to keep this to a minimum – we’ve chosen the quietest time of year, we’ve tried to avoid key events and we have put additional measures in place to solve known issues.” He said the council was in discussions with bus operator Buses of Somerset over public transport arrangements.
A suggested diversion route can be found at www.travelsomerset.co.uk/roadworks and will be clearly signposted on site. You can contact the area highways office with any queries by calling 0300 123 2224 or emailing [email protected].