DRIVERS using the A303 near Mere say they are growing frustrated after months of roadworks with little visible sign of progress.

Traffic management, including lane closures and a 50mph speed limit, was first introduced in January, with signs indicating drainage works.

But with no obvious activity on site, many motorists have been left wondering whether anything is actually being done.

One driver commented online: “What is going on. They [roadworks] seem to be there for no apparent reason,” while another said: “Doesn’t seem as if anything’s been done in months. Never see any workers. Ridiculous.”

National Highways has now confirmed the works are linked to ongoing investigations into flooding and road surface issues along the route.

Jonathan Hill, National Highways route manager, said: “We’ve taken steps to ensure the safety of the travelling public following a spate of flooding issues along a section of the A303 near Mere.

“After identifying an increase in water run-off affecting this dual carriageway section of the A303 in recent winters, we installed temporary traffic management early in the new year to protect road users from the risks of floodwater and surface water issues while we carried out further inspection and assessment work.”

The current measures cover a 1.2-mile stretch, where lane one is closed in both directions and a reduced speed limit is in place.

These are expected to remain until at least the end of April while further inspections and potential remedial work are carried out.

A separate issue has also been identified further along the road at Leigh Common, between Bourton and Wincanton, where an uneven surface is being monitored.

Mr Hill added: “We have identified a section of uneven road surface on the westbound A303 at Leigh Common and have installed a temporary speed restriction of 50mph for safety reasons while we carry out further inspections and monitoring in the coming weeks.”