MEMBER of Parliament for Glastonbury and Somerton officially opened the new A303 dual carriageway between Sparkford and Ilminster on Thursday.

On November 14 Sarah Dyke, attended the opening of the multi-million pound project, which has been in the works for several years.

National Highways says it is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety on one of Somerset's most vital road corridors and marks a major milestone in ongoing efforts to improve regional infrastructure and boost economic growth.

To mark the occasion, Sarah Dyke MP participated in a ceremonial tree planting.

The tree will serve as a lasting reminder of the successful completion of the project and its positive impact on the local community.

Speaking at the opening event, Ms Dyke said: “It was wonderful to bring together so many key stakeholders that will benefit this vital scheme and to plant trees that will last long into the future along with this vital stretch of road.

“Transport links like these bring together communities and I am grateful to all those involved in making this happen.

"A safer and less congested A303 will benefit both people living in Glastonbury and Somerton and the millions of tourists who visit the West Country each year alike, and I look forward to seeing many of those tourists stopping and spending time in Somerset – the gateway to the south-west."

Ms Dyke highlighted the importance of continuing investment in the region's infrastructure to support local communities and the broader economy.

She also commended the collaboration between local authorities, National Highways, and contractors for ensuring the successful delivery of the project.

The upgrade to the A303 between Sparkford and Ilminster includes the construction of a dual carriageway along a 3.5-mile stretch, as well as improvements to junctions and the addition of new safety features.

It is part of a broader programme of road enhancements designed to tackle congestion and promote safer travel across the A303 corridor, which runs from the M3 in Hampshire to the M5 in Somerset.

The opening event, held at the Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford, was attended by local government representatives, transport officials, chief executive of National Highways Nick Harris, and members of the public who were keen to mark the completion of this long-awaited project.