Project Summary
Project Background
Staplegrove A358 Highway works facilitate the access to the new residential development known as Staplegrove West. This is a large development on the land north of the A358 with a sizable access required to serve the demands of the development and its future connections with Staplegrove East via the spine road. Consent for this access was granted in July 2022.
About the Project
In consultation with Somerset Highways, scheme proposals were developed to improve the capacity of the existing infrastructure while creating a suitable access to the development. Plans now include significant road widening, improved pedestrian and cycle access and the replacement of Silk Mills roundabout with a signalised junction.
The complexity of this new access is exacerbated by the traffic demand of the existing roundabouts in its proximity. Silk Mills and Cross Keys Roundabouts are significant junctions for road users accessing and egressing the area, the combined junctions are reported to be one of the busiest sections of road network in the county. In addition to the creation of the access, the network improvements significantly improve highway capacity, future proofing the junctions for smart signalisation to allow for more agile management of traffic demands.
Subsequent to this, Bloor Homes are engaged in design discussions for wider highway improvements to ensure greater highway network efficiency.
FAQs
How long will the works take?
– Commenced in October 2025, the project is forecast to complete in Summer 2027. During this programme, several phases of traffic management will allow for works to progress in sequence while also allowing for significant utility diversions.
How will access and traffic be affected?
– In consultation with Somerset Highways, a phased scheme has been developed to ensure traffic flow in all directions continues where possible. This phased approach extends the programme of works in exchange for improved traffic flows.
What has been done to minimise disruption?
– Temporary traffic signals are being avoided during daytime hours to ensure continuous traffic movement during the busiest times. Numerous works require reduction to single lanes accessing Silk Mills roundabout to ensure safe working conditions, two lane approaches will be restored when safe to do so, subject to approval by Somerset Highways.
Why can’t works be undertaken at night?
– The proximity of existing residential dwellings reduces the number of working hours to avoid disruptions to these residents. Only surfacing works will take place at evenings due to the wider lane restrictions required for this operation.
Why can’t normal traffic flows be restored when work finishes each day?
– To ensure safety is maintained for contractors, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, it’s essential that we maintain safety barriers throughout the duration of the project.
Will there be any disruption to utility services?
– Diversions of existing services are required. These diversions are coordinated by Bloor Homes and CJL Construction and undertaken by the relevant utility provider. The utility provider is responsible for providing continuous utility service during the works.