Bus gate construction to close road for two months

Motorists can expect nearly two months of road closures while a new bus gate is built.

Diversions will be in place while Comeytrowe Lane in Taunton, Somerset, is closed around the clock from Thursday until 23 December.

The bus gate was first approved in 2018 and aims to improve the public transport link between the new 2,000-home Orchard Grove development and the town centre.

A spokesperson for Orchard Grove said the new gate "will create a dedicated route for buses, cyclists and pedestrians between Lambourne Road in Orchard Grove and Comeytrowe Lane, making it easier to travel into Taunton and the surrounding area".

"The works taking place over the next couple of months will deliver the infrastructure for the bus gate, including a wider, resurfaced road, new footpaths, drainage, street lighting and signage," they added.

Residents have been told a diversion will be in place via Deane Drive, Galmington Road, College Way and Queensway.

Business premises and a primary school between the A30 Wellington Road and Honiton Road are to be built within the development.

The bus gate is expected to be fully operational by early next year; a new bus service for the area will have to be established first.

Cameras will be installed to prevent motorists from rat-running; car or van drivers risk a fine if they use it.

Pedestrians and cyclists will be able to use the new connection once the homes on Lambourne Road are completed, which is scheduled for spring 2027.

In the longer term, Somerset Council are considering turning a section of Comeytrowe Road into a green lane for non-motorised traffic and pedestrians.

Alan Muir, the council's principal transport planner for active travel, confirmed more detailed proposals for Comeytrowe Road, along with changes to Touches Lane in Chard and Burcott Lane in Wells.

"The schemes in Wells, Taunton and Chard will be developed further, informed by the comments received [at a consultation]," he added.

"An update will be issued to key local stakeholders, which includes local councillors and appropriate town, city and parish council stakeholders in 2027 to inform of next steps."

Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.