AROUND 7,000sqm of the A30 will be resurfaced and traffic lights repaired in West Coker this summer – with the road closed for over a month.

The work, in the High Street, will be carried out by Somerset Council and the road will be closed between July 22 and September 4.

The council said the work had been planned during the school summer holidays as data shows traffic on the A30 is reduced by 50 per cent during this period.

They said it was not possible to keep the road open as there will be significant excavations needed to remove the old traffic signals and accompanying ducting and wiring.

Access for residents and businesses in the immediate area will be maintained throughout and a diversion will be in place, with bus services diverted.

“These works in West Coker are long overdue and have been welcomed by the community and local members,” said Cllr Mike Rigby, the council’s lead executive member for transport and digital.

“However, it has been made clear that any impact on the community and disruption needs to be minimised and proper support provided.

“Our contractor has confirmed there will be a public liaison worker on-site every day of this road closure. This person will be tasked with dealing with any local issues as and when they arise.

“We’ve also ensured that emergency services can continue to have full access to all properties at all times in West Coker.

“We have to act now and a ‘one hit’ approach in getting both the signals replaced and resurfacing carried out at the same time is the sensible option.

“The traffic signals need to be replaced before they fail and cause worse disruption, whilst a full resurfacing of the road is needed urgently as the current carriageway is showing significant signs of wear and tear.

“By September we will have completed major long-term improvements on this busy stretch of road and won’t need to return for the foreseeable future.”