Introduction
We are carrying out a major refurbishment of traffic signals at locations in towns across Somerset.
Work at a number of key junctions and pedestrian crossings in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Chard, Frome, Shepton Mallet and Wells have successfully been completed as part of the programme.
Work is ongoing in Mendip
Shepton Mallet
- Charlton Rd Crossroads A37/A361 – work commences January 2024 and is expected to take five months. Read more about the Charlton Road traffic lights
Background
The signals recovery programme is Somerset Council’s county-wide package of work to refurbish signal equipment coming to the end of its working life.
It is essential that the work happens now as the existing signals, in service for between 25 to 40 years, are in a state of disrepair and need replacing as soon as possible.
The new signals will be more efficient, more eco-friendly, and importantly should improve traffic flow and will provide much safer access for both cyclists and pedestrians.
Why are we doing this work
The existing signals are in a state of disrepair and must be replaced as soon as possible.
The new signals will be better coordinated, more efficient, and eco-friendly and should improve traffic flow plus provide much better connectivity and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Funding
These are Somerset Council capital-funded works.
Contractor
The framework contractors are Centregreat, Griffiths and Swarco.
Construction dates
Work commenced in Yeovil early in 2022. Other sites in Wells, Shepton Mallet and Frome commenced later the same year.
The programme
All existing traffic signals will be fully refurbished. Underground infrastructure which carries cables, must be dug up and removed. This is along with new poles and updated equipment installed which is user-friendly and tactile compliant for all users including those who are visually impaired.
Overall this should improve traffic flow.
The new signals and controls are low voltage and eco-friendly in line with Somerset’s Climate Emergency Strategy.
Questions and answers
Why are the works needed and what work will be undertaken?
The existing signals are nearing the end of their lifespan and need to be replaced.
It’s therefore vital that the site is refurbished as soon as possible.
We are carrying out this work now to ensure infrastructure is in place to support the recovery of our local economy.
All existing traffic signals will be fully refurbished. Underground infrastructure which carries cables must be dug up and removed. This is along with new poles, heads and push button units being installed which are user-friendly and tactile compliant for all users, including those who are visually impaired.
How will the traffic be managed?
There will be an impact on residents, businesses and road users but the team is working closely with the contractor to minimise this in every way possible.
Usually, temporary lights are in place throughout this work.
How long will the works take?
The work in Shepton Mallet at the Charlton Road crossroads is due to take approximately 5 months.
Where has funding come from?
These are Somerset Council capital-funded works.
Who is undertaking the work?
Centregreat is undertaking the works in Shepton Mallet.