A38 Improvement Scheme

Overview

Somerset Council (SC) is working in partnership with North Somerset Council (NSC) on a funding bid to deliver a series of improvement schemes on a stretch of the A38 which runs from the Edithmead Roundabout at Junction 22 of the M5 to the South Bristol Link (Colliters Way).  

Many junctions along the route are operating close to capacity leading to varying travel speeds, limited accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, unreliable journey times and congestion at peak times, along with potential road safety issues.  

This has a knock-on impact on local communities, the local economy and businesses.  

What are we hoping to achieve with the proposed schemes?  

• Improve journey times on the A38 corridor.  

• Improve road safety.  

• Support the regional economy and enable housing delivery.  

• To better connect local communities by active travel modes such as cycling and walking.  

Key proposed schemes in Somerset Council area  

Edithmead Roundabout near J22 M5: Creation of a through-about with signalisation of all arms of the roundabout. The scheme will improve the Edithmead Roundabout (providing access to M5 Junction 22) to tackle the existing issues of congestion and queuing back onto the motorway. Redesign the roundabout to:  

• Increase the number of traffic lanes on each roundabout entry arm;  

•  Widen the circulatory carriageway;   

• Provide a through-lane for right-turning vehicles from the M5 J22 to the A38 northbound;  

•  Install traffic signals on all approach arms and on the roundabout circulatory carriageway.  

Rooks Bridge: Safety scheme comprising mainly road markings.   

Carry out signing and lining enhancements to improve safety and traffic flow, but also to enhance visibility.  

Cross: Creation of a staggered junction design at Cross.   

Redesign Cross junction (A38 / A371 Cross Lane / Old Coach Road) to provide a staggered junction layout. Introduce dedicated left- and right-turn lanes on the A38 approaches to Old Coach Road and Cross Lane. This will improve safety and traffic flow at this location. 

Strawberry Line Crossing: An improved crossing of the A38 at Shute Shelve.   

Upgrade crossing where the traffic-free Strawberry Line route meets the A38 to improve safety, increase visibility, to support vulnerable road users, and encouraging walking and sustainable travel. 

Sustainable Travel: Improvements to bus stops and pedestrian/cycling facilities at various locations.

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