A SEMI-RETIRED Williton businessman this week called on civic leaders to meet to discuss a comprehensive report which he said showed it was possible to carry out gas mains replacement in the village’s Long Street without closing the busy A39 for two months.

The planned complete closure of half-a-mile of the A39 is scheduled for November 9 to January 20 as part of Wales and West Utilities’ £1.2 million modernisation programme.

It has sparked bitter criticism in the village with fears it will have a dire effect on businesses and residents across a wide area.

Businessman and campaigner Edward Martin plans to discuss his proposal, which he calls ‘a positive way forward’, at a public meeting in Williton Pavilion at 7 pm on October 6.

He said: “We accept the work needs to be undertaken.

“The issue is how we work together to ensure it causes the least possible disruption to residents, businesses, visitors, and those travelling through Williton.

“The intention is not to create yet another committee, but to establish an effective liaison group which can gather concerns, co-ordinate information, and engage with those delivering the works.”

Somerset councillors invited to the meeting include executive members Cllrs Mike Rigby and Richard Wilkins.

Mr Martin said: “The objective will be to have a practical discussion and, if possible, agree the basis for a co-ordinated approach to the project.

“I am asking that the proposal is looked at from the perspective of the whole community and not simply what is most convenient for the contractor.”

The intensive programme of gas mains replacement will involve four miles of pipes being upgraded over the next year for 700 customers in Williton and Watchet.

Mr Martin said as the scheme had not yet gone to Somerset Council for approval of road closures and diversions, there was still time to make changes.

He hoped the public meeting would ask why a complete closure was technically necessary, what phased working options had been considered, and whether temporary traffic lights could be used to control two-way traffic on short sections of excavation.

Mr Martin said: “Methodology should be turned around, instead of starting with closing the road, which should be the last resort.”

It was also important to know how emergency, agricultural, commercial, and essential-service access would be maintained, and how the Hinkley Point worker-transport arrangements would be accommodated.

Mr Martin said: “What assessment has been made of the economic impact on local businesses and what measures will be put in place to minimise the overall duration of disruption?

“I am keen this is approached constructively.

“The objective is not to prevent essential infrastructure work but to ensure that it causes the minimum practicable disruption to residents, businesses, farmers, essential services, and the wider West Somerset community.”

A spokesperson for Wales and West Utilities said: “This work is vital to ensure that gas continues to flow safely and reliably across the area, helping to keep people warm for decades to come.”