THE completion of work on a key route into West Somerset in time for the busy summer season has been welcomed by council chiefs. Power firm EDF Energy has finished work on a new roundabout on the A39 at Sandford Corner, near Cannington, ahead of schedule. Temporary traffic lights had been in place since the start of the work in February. The roundabout is part of a series of upgrades to local roads being paid for by EDF as part of the company's plans to build a new power station at Hinkley Point C, and further improvements are planned for the autumn. Cllr Tim Taylor, leader of West Somerset Council, said: "The A39 is a major artery that helps keep the heart of our economy beating. "It is excellent news that the roundabout is now operational just as we head into the summer season when so many visitors come to West Somerset. "It is also good news for local residents and businesses who need to use the A39. "I would thank everyone for their patience while this essential work was carried out – we can now enjoy the benefits." The roundabout was officially opened by Cllr David Hall, Somerset County Council's cabinet member for business, inward investment and policy, and Kevin Murray, EDF Energy's project manager. EDF has agreed funding for road improvements in Bridgwater, Cannington and West Somerset as part of a package of measures with local authorities to prepare for the construction of Hinkley C. Improvements have already been delivered in Cannington and along the C182, the main road to Hinkley Point. The Sandford work was given a Considerate Constructors' Scheme award, with the site being praised for "performance beyond compliance". Mr Murray said: "The new roundabout is a permanent improvement to a key road, making it safer and better for all road users. "It's an important part of a £16 million investment in the local roads network by EDF Energy in connection with Hinkley Point C. "We're pleased that road users, both local and visitors, can now enjoy a safer journey as we move into the busy summer holiday season and beyond." Cllr Hall added: "The A39 is a major route in Somerset and this project marks the first step in a line of road improvements we have planned with EDF Energy and local communities to mitigate the potential impacts of building Hinkley C. "Through effective joint working between EDF Energy, its contractor Aggregate Industries and Somerset County Council, I'm also delighted the scheme has been delivered ahead of schedule." The improvement is part of the planning agreements with Somerset local authorities which will see EDF Energy invest almost £100 million in supporting local communities and services such as education, training, transport and housing to mitigate potential impacts of building the planned new power station. Representatives from the local community joined the project team to welcome an "Into Somerset" lorry as the new roundabout officially opened for business.