A MAJOR road improvement scheme in Taunton delayed by the pandemic is set to cause further traffic disruption when it gets underway this summer.

The £8.3million project to upgrade the busy Creech Castle junction originally scheduled to begin in the spring will now start on August 9.

It is the next phase on the £19m revamp of the M5 Junction 25, due for completion later this summer.

Cllr John Woodman, Somerset County Council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "We have a fantastic track record of attracting huge Government investment to Somerset and of delivering major infrastructure projects on time and on budget.

“It’s really positive to be able to get this work started after the challenge of the last 15 months.

“We recognise the Creech Castle scheme will be challenging to deliver, which is why we are getting in contact with residents and businesses individually over the coming days to help support them and minimise the impact.

“We’ll also be looking at ways to support businesses in town and those travelling to Taunton while these vital works are taking place.

“It’s important to remember the big picture. Doing nothing just isn’t an option.

"This is about supporting growth, job creation and future prosperity by investing hugely in our transport network.

“And this isn’t just about car users. The project at Creech Castle offers vastly improved facilities for cyclists and pedestrians, as does the remodelled Junction 25 and we are developing a programme of investment in cycling infrastructure across the County.

“Now more than ever, as we face the challenges of climate change and a growing population, enabling the choice of and encouraging alternative modes of transport is crucial.”

Another project key to improving Taunton’s road network is the developer-delivered A3259 Western Relief Road at Monkton Heathfield, which is progressing well and is programmed to be opened to vehicles at the end of next month – before the works start at Creech Castle.