MIDSOMER Norton residents are calling on Somerset Council to prioritise “long-overdue improvements” to the B3355 amid news of an additional £12m from the Government to repair pothole-ridden roads.

With additional funding being allocated to Somerset's roads from April 2025, members of the community say action must now be taken on the narrow road into the town now described as “dangerous” due to the number of heavy vehicles using it.

Traffic along the B3355 has significantly increased following the completion of new developments, with further construction planned. The key route for commuters and commercial vehicles has become a growing concern due to its deteriorating condition and numerous potholes.

Alex Davis, chairman of Midsomer Norton Rugby Club and manager of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust, said: ”The current road along the boundary of the rugby club has seen regular incidents, with many of these not only causing damage to our community facilities but also causing injury.

“Indeed, there was a fatality a number of years back. New developments proposed beyond the club will no doubt cause a big increase in traffic along this route and an increase in incidents.

“With families and young children inevitably looking to use this route to access the school, town centre and rugby club, the club's committee is of the opinion the council needs to work with developers to ensure an adequate road and pavement infrastructure, as has been installed on the lower half of Silver Street.”

Mr Davis and the club have expressed their willingness to work with relevant parties, including local authorities and community groups, to explore solutions to address the state of the road.

CEO for the Midsomer Norton Schools' Partnership, Alun Williams, recently said: "Local road networks are important to enable pupils and staff to access schools easily. With the increase in housing, yet no additional improvement in roads, it is no surprise that highways are becoming more dangerous and congested.”

This funding is part of a £300m allocation to local authorities across the south west, announced by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander MP.

Somerset’s total highways budget from central government for 2025/26 will rise to nearly £45M. While the council has welcomed the announcement, it has stated it is too early to confirm which roads will benefit.

If you would like to report potholes or other issues with the road conditions in your area, you can do so by visiting the Somerset Council website at www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/report-a-problem-on-the-road.