SOMERSET Council is hosting a drop-in event for members of the public to find out more about upcoming works to replace ageing traffic signals and upgrade crossings on Hurdle Way.

Both sets of traffic lights on the Hurdle Way/Mansfield Road and Hurdle Way/ Silver Street junctions need renewing as they are more than 20 years old and near the end of their working life.

Work is due to start early in November and complete in the spring.

The new lights will give more priority to buses and the Council will be improving pedestrian and cycling crossing facilities at the same time.

Most of the work will be carried out under temporary traffic lights.

Some short-term evening closures will be required but advanced notice will be given ahead of these.

The drop-in takes place on October 30 from 3.30 pm to 6.30pm in Taunton Library’s meeting room and everyone is welcome to come along and find out more about the project.

The team will be on hand to answer questions and listen to any concerns.

As well as replacing signals and upgrading crossings, the scheme is designed to enhance walking, cycling, and bus travel in the area.

An on-road cycle lane will be introduced on Mansfield Road at its junction with Hurdle Way.

The new lights will be accompanied by ‘advanced stop boxes’ on the road. Commonly known has ‘bike boxes’ these give cyclists a safe place to stop ahead of other vehicles.

The signals will incorporate programming giving priority to approaching buses, which will improve running times for passengers. The road will also be resurfaced.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, lead member for Transport and Waste Services said “This vital project will replace old, outdated equipment close to the end of its lifespan, whilst improving conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

“By enhancing routes for walking, cycling, and bus travel, it is part of the ongoing efforts to make Taunton more connected, in line with our Garden Town Vision.

“It is also linked to our Bus Service Improvement Plan which aims to make bus travel a more attractive and feasible option for people, ensuring buses can move through this route more quickly.

“We know there will be some increased disruption at peak times, we’ll do our best to minimise this, but we would also urge people to plan ahead, while the work is ongoing.

“It is worth remembering that we have a fantastic Park and Ride Service operated by our partner Stagecoach which costs just £2 for a return journey into town – this could be a useful alternative if you commute regularly.

“We welcome everyone to come along to this event and find out about these essential Hurdle Way improvements.”