COMPLETION of a new £3million relief road in Monkton Heathfield moves a step closer with works to tie in to the A3259.

The Western Relief Road is being delivered by Persimmon Homes South West and is part of a package of highway works associated with urban extension of the area.

Most of the works to date have been undertaken offline, but the new road now needs to be connected to the A3259.

An 11-week road closure is necessary from today (Wednesday, May 5) between Tudor Way and Yallands Hill to make these connections.

Diversions will be signposted and access for local residents will be maintained.

Robert Hart, managing director of Persimmon Homes South West, said: “Persimmon is working closely with Somerset County Council to deliver this long-awaited road to relieve the traffic congestion through West Monkton and Monkton Heathfield.

“There will of course be an impact on local people, businesses and road users while this major project is underway and we understand the need to do everything we can to reduce that.

"A road closure is essential to enable us to deliver the works as quickly as possible and reduce the overall impact.”

People living along the closed route will still have access to their homes and once the Western Relief Road is operational can look forward to traffic calming measures being installed by Persimmon Homes South West along the A3259.

In addition to the highways investment Monkton Heathfield and the surrounding area will gain from a Community Investment Levy worth approximately £2million, thanks to contributions being made by the home builder as construction progresses on the £40 million Hartnells Farm development off Bawler Road.

Planning permission has been granted for a development of 320 homes, of which 25 per cent will be affordable.

The development, situated just over three miles from Taunton, will also benefit from an arboretum, landscaping and fully equipped play areas.

In addition to the levy Persimmon Homes will contribute £450,000 towards improving sustainable drainage around the 21-acre site.

Mr Hart added: “These contributions are required as part of the planning process and, in the case of Hartnells Farm, this will contribute a significant amount of funding to improve and enhance local life and the environment.

“We are also pleased to be creating jobs in construction and the supply chain which brings a boost to Taunton’s economy and the Somerset region overall.”