A multi-million pound road improvement scheme in Yeovil – partly funded with £6.6m from the LEP’s Growth Deal – is now complete – supporting the town’s growth and unlocking more than 1,500 homes and 20 hectares of employment land.
The Western Corridor scheme has seen several key junctions upgraded to increase capacity and help them cope with expected increases in traffic – including the Westlands, Bluebell, Preston Road, Asda, Lysander Road and Copse Road junctions.
The project is seen as critical to Yeovil’s economic future with several nearby developments at Lufton, Brimsmore and Bunford Park only permitted to go ahead once the road improvements are in place.
The scheme also includes a number of new pedestrian crossings, footpaths and cycleways to promote alternative travel choices in the area.
Minister for Local Growth, Jake Berry MP, said: “We’re committed to boosting economic growth across the whole of the UK and building a Britain fit for the future. The Yeovil Western Corridor scheme, made possible with £6.49 million from the Local Growth Fund, is a great example of how we are transforming transport infrastructure so communities are better connected to opportunities in the South-West and beyond. With junction upgrades, a new footway and cycle crossing facilities, this scheme will not just deliver real benefits for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors to the area, but also help to unlock new housing and employment opportunities helping to boost the local economy.â€
Councillor John Woodman, Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Yeovil is very much a growing town and we’re pleased to have played our part by upgrading its creaking road system along the Western Corridor.
“The improvements are already helping to keep traffic moving during peak times and the scheme’s completion now gives the green light for further planned development to go ahead, providing new homes, creating more jobs and boosting the local economy.
“We’ve had to finely balance the need to minimise disruption with getting the job done and I’d like to again thank the people of Yeovil for bearing with us while construction was underway.
“Now’s the time to look forward, to celebrate the successful completion of this vital project and be positive about what the future holds for Yeovil and south Somerset.â€
Steve Hindley, CBE DL, LEP Chair said: “The Yeovil Western Corridor scheme is an important project in our strategic transport portfolio that we’ve funded through our Growth Deal with Government, so I’m pleased to see its completion.
“As well as easing congestion by junction improvements, there are new pedestrian and cycle facilities, and the scheme opens up new housing and business space for Yeovil’s growing economy.â€
Some of the final finishing touches, including landscaping and planting, are continuing and will take place at the appropriate time.
More information on the background to the scheme can be found at www.travelsomerset.co.uk/westerncorridor.
