A section of the A36 Warminster Road between Limpley Stoke and Monkton Combe will be closed between 12 August and Spring 2025 for essential safety improvement works.  

Work is required to stabilise the southbound embankment following cracking in the footpath alongside the carriageway. This will prevent further movement and keep the main carriageway safe.

During the closure, National Highways will also make drainage improvements to prevent future damage and reduce the need for more closures. 

Diversion routes will be clearly signposted and advanced notices have been in place to inform road users of the upcoming closure. The northbound diversion will be via the A361, A350 and A4, the southbound diversion will be via the A4, A350 and A361. The diversion routes can be seen on one.network. 

While work is carried out, access will be maintained to properties within the closure, with traffic marshals on hand to help. 

The council has worked with National Highways and Wiltshire Council to ensure suitable engagement and diversion routes were agreed to keep disruption to a minimum.

After cracking was first discovered in the footpath of the A36 between Limpley Stoke Viaduct and Limpley Stoke Village, survey works were undertaken to assess to the cause and extent of the issue. 

The repair work will see installation of a concrete piled wall and capping beam to stabilise the embankment, as well as new drainage and pavement.  The works will require clearing vegetation and excavation of the cracked pavement sections. 

During the closure, National Highways will also install netting on the rock cutting above the northbound carriageway and undertake repairs to the viaduct and retaining walls in the area.

Councillor Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “Unfortunately these are significant works to repair an ongoing issue that will be disruptive for a period of time but what National Highways are doing is absolutely essential. 

“We’ve worked closely with National Highways to make sure suitable diversions are put in place, the works cause as little disruption as possible and that residents will be kept informed throughout the project.”

Hugh Campbell, Senior Project Manager for National Highways, said: “Safety is our number one priority, and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but need to fix the root of the problem to ensure it doesn’t happen again and that motorists and pedestrians remain safe at all times.

“We understand that road closures are frustrating, but by fully closing the road, we can get this scheme done safely and quickly, causing less disruption overall. Once it’s all complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come.”

For more information, including diversion routes, you can visit the dedicated scheme webpage https://nationalhighways.co.uk/a36limpleystoke, contact National Highways on 0300 123 5000 (open 24/7), or email: [email protected]. 

Original press release by Bath and North East Somerset Council