Essential works to replace and upgrade traffic signals on the busy A39 at Dunster have been completed – ahead of schedule.
The upgrade was required as the previous traffic lights had been in service for more than 30 years and had reached the end of their operational life. Ongoing maintenance was no longer viable, and the risk of sudden failure posed a significant threat of unplanned disruption for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Recognising that a “do nothing” approach was not an option, Somerset Council planned and delivered the works during the period of lowest traffic flows on this busy route to minimise disruption as much as possible.
Cllr Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Highways and Waste Services, said:
This has been a challenging project to deliver on a busy road with few alternative routes. Therefore I’m pleased we’ve been able to accelerate the programme and complete the works ahead of schedule and in time for the Easter holidays.
We would like to thank the West Somerset community for their patience and support. Doing nothing was not an option, and by working together we’ve been able to upgrade this important junction and ensure it is resilient and efficient for the future.
The new traffic lights were commissioned on Wednesday 1 April, with the last of the temporary traffic management removed ahead of the Easter weekend. The lights will be monitored over the next few weeks to ensure they are operating effectively.
