SOMERSET County Council has won an extra £3million in capital support from the Government for transport improvements and maintenance next year.

The figure includes an additional £756,000 for transport improvements as part of Whitehall's recognition of the county's improving performance.

Tim carroll, county councillor with responsibility for transport said: "We're extremely pleased that the Government has recognised the huge effort Somerset Highways put into making sure our £21million transport programme was delivered within the year."

The extra funding also includes ongoing financial support from the Government for Taunton's North West Transport Package, including a bridge over the Silk Mills level crossing and a park-and-ride scheme, due to start next year.