Major A-road to close until 2025

A huge stretch of the A36 will be closed until next year for urgent safety repairs after cracks appeared in a footpath. National Highways says the work is needed to stabilise an embankment and keep the main carriageway safe.

The problem was first discovered in the footpath of the A36 between Limpley Stoke Viaduct and Limpley Stoke Village. The solution will see the installation of a concrete piled wall and capping beam to stabilise the embankment, as well as new drainage and pavement.

The works will also require clearing vegetation and excavation of the cracked pavement sections, National Highways says. And drainage improvements will be made in a bid to prevent future damage and reduce the need for more closures.

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During the works, the A36 Warminster Road will be fully closed between Limpley Stoke and Monkton Coombe from Monday, August 12 until spring 2025. During the closure, the team will also install netting on the rock cutting above the northbound carriageway as well as undertaking repairs to the viaduct and retaining walls in the area.

Hugh Campbell, Senior Project Manager for National Highways, said: “Safety is our number one priority and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but need to fix the root of the problem to ensure it doesn’t happen again and that motorists and pedestrians remain safe at all times. We understand that road closures are frustrating, but by fully closing the road, we can get this scheme done safely and quickly, causing less disruption overall.

"Once it's all complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come.”

National Highways says it is working closely with both Bath and North East Somerset Council, and Wiltshire County Council, and diversion routes have been agreed "to keep disruption as minimum as possible". A diversion will be in place for northbound traffic via A361, A350 and A4. Taller vehicles should use the A361, A350, M4, M32, A4174, A4 and A36. Southbound traffic should follow the same routes in reverse.

Cllr Manda Rigby, cabinet member for transport at Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “Unfortunately these are significant works to repair an ongoing issue that will be disruptive for a period of time but what National Highways are doing is absolutely essential. We’ve worked closely with National Highways to make sure suitable diversions are put in place, the works cause as little disruption as possible and that residents will be kept informed throughout the project.”

For more information, including diversion routes, visit the scheme webpage, contact National Highways on 0300 123 5000 or email info@nationalhighways.co.uk.