RESIDENTS, businesses, and commuters across West Somerset are being encouraged to come together on Wednesday evening (August 26) in support of a bid to reopen the B3191 coast road between Watchet and Blue Anchor.

A Liberal Democrat-led gathering will take place at 7 pm on the Watchet side of the Cleeve Hill closure site.

It is being organised by MP Rachel Gilmour and Somerset Cllr Cara Strom following a bid submitted by Somerset Council to the Government’s Structures Fund for up to £41 million to reopen the road.

The B3191 has been closed to traffic since January, 2023, because of the danger of coastal cliff erosion, although pedestrians and cyclists were later allowed to use it.

Cllr Strom and Mrs Gilmour want the public gathering to demonstrate the strength of local feeling.

Mrs Gilmour said: “Securing the reopening of the B3191 has been one of my key priorities since being elected, and I have worked closely with local councillors and Liberal Democrat colleagues across Somerset to ensure the Government understands just how important this road is to our community.

“The B3191 is far more than a transport link.

“It is an essential route for residents, businesses, and visitors, and its reopening would help strengthen the local economy, improve connectivity and support the future prosperity of West Somerset.

“The Government now has an opportunity to invest in a project that would deliver lasting benefits for Watchet and the wider area.

“I will continue to press our case with Ministers, but it is equally important they see the strength of support from the local community.

“I would urge everybody who has been affected by the closure to join us.

“By standing together, we can send a clear message that the reopening of the B3191 matters to the people of West Somerset.”

Cllr Strom said residents were encouraged to take along friends and neighbours, and help demonstrate the importance of securing the road’s future for the whole community.