Somerset motorists warned over A361 closure to Taunton

By Laura Linham 27th May 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 1 minutes ago

Motorists heading towards Taunton are being warned of a five-week closure on the A361 at Burrowbridge this summer.

Somerset Council says ageing traffic signals either side of the narrow bridge over the River Parrett need to be replaced before they fail.

The lights, close to Burrow Mump, are more than 30 years old and are nearing the end of their working life.

The council said the A361 will have to close in both directions 24/7 from Wednesday, 23 July, to Wednesday, 2 September, because of the restricted working area.

A signed diversion will run via the A372, A38 Bridgwater and A361.

The road around Burrow Mump will also be resurfaced as part of the scheme.

Work is due to start on Monday, 29 June, initially under temporary traffic lights, with access maintained as normal in all directions.

During that first phase, there may need to be an overnight closure between 6 pm and 6 am. Somerset Council said details will be provided nearer the time.

Pedestrian access and crossing facilities will be maintained throughout the works.

Access for residents and businesses will also be maintained.

A public drop-in session will be held on Tuesday, 2 June, from 3 pm to 7.30 pm at Burrowbridge Coronation Hall, where people can meet the project team and find out more about the scheme.

Somerset Council said the work is part of a county-wide programme to replace traffic signals.

The scheme involves removing and replacing old ducting, wiring and traffic light heads.

An evening or overnight road closure will also be needed towards the end of the works for resurfacing. The council said this will be advertised in advance.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council's lead member for transport and waste services, said: "This is about replacing end of life equipment, so doing nothing is not an option.

"There is never a good time to do this – during the summer holidays when schools are not operating and the route is quieter is the most suitable time.

"We know businesses and residents will be concerned about the potential disruption caused and we will be ensuring signage is in place underlining that Burrowbridge businesses are open as usual during these works.

"Rest assured our team will be working at pace to get this work done and to minimise disruption as much as possible."

Anyone with questions can contact project public liaison officer Syed Shah by emailing [email protected] or calling 07812 449605.