The redevelopment of a major roundabout on the outskirts of Bristol has been given the go-ahead. The A38 Lime Kiln roundabout, located southwest of the city near Withywood, Bedminster Down and Bishopsworth, will be reconfigured to support the growing levels of traffic.
The Lime Kiln scheme, which is being funded by the UK Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), has a provisional start date of spring 2025. The scheme aims to improve the travelling experience for all road users including pedestrians, cyclists and bus passengers heading into the future.
The original proposal, which went into a consultation which lasted six weeks in February and March, included a new bus lane on Colliters Way (southbound). The bus lane was scrapped following feedback from the public and additional modelling work.
Instead, the junction will be expanded to include 140 metres of new bus lanes on the A38, which will be completed with new bus gates and smart road signals. It would allow for greater traffic flow for all users according to North Somerset Council.
There will be enhanced walking, cycling and wheeling crossing facilities including on the eastern arm of Colliters Way and vital work to improve drainage in the area to alleviate surface water. Access to the local farm will also be improved.
The changes will form part of the wider improvement of infrastructure needed to support additional traffic in light of the new Banwell Bypass. An increased traffic capacity was also needed as future housing developments are built and the expansion of Bristol Airport takes place.
Further details of the works will be shared at a later date. Traffic management measures, including potential diversions, will be revealed closer to the spring 2025 start date and when required.
Councillor Hannah Young, Executive Member for Highways and Transport at North Somerset Council, said: “I am very pleased to say that the Lime Kiln roundabout scheme of improvements will now be going ahead. With more people visiting, living and working in North Somerset it’s really important that we make changes to the road infrastructure in this location to cope with the increase in all forms of traffic.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to give feedback on our initial proposals – your insights have played a vital role in the scheme’s evolution. I realise that the disruption of roadworks can be very frustrating, so we’ve recently reviewed how we can learn from previous road schemes to make sure we are doing everything within our powers to minimise the impact in this location.
“Once complete, Lime Kiln will form an important part of our wider vision for delivering the vital infrastructure needed to support our communities today and tomorrow.”
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