Somerset Road Closure to Disrupt Key Travel Route During Peak Summer Season

Essential repair works on the railway bridge over the A378 in Langport, Somerset, will cause a full road closure from 4 to 31 August 2025. Network Rail will carry out structural improvements, including the installation of new steelwork, repainting, and enhanced safety features to extend the bridge’s service life. Although the bridge was last rebuilt in the 1970s, it now needs vital reinforcement to keep both train services and road traffic running safely.

To carry out these essential upgrades safely and efficiently, several key traffic measures will be implemented during the project period:

• The A378 beneath the bridge will be shut entirely from 4 to 31 August.
• Traffic will be rerouted via an extended path through the A358, A38, A361, and A372.
• Two additional weekend closures are scheduled for 13–14 and 20–21 September.
• Temporary three-way traffic lights will operate from 2 to 6 June and 1 to 12 September.
• Pedestrian access will remain available throughout the works.
• Vehicle traffic will be significantly affected during these periods.

This closure will directly impact travellers moving through central Somerset by car or bus, especially those unfamiliar with the local road network. Drivers heading along the A378 toward Taunton, Yeovil, or the Somerset Levels are likely to experience rerouted journeys and increased congestion nearby. For long-distance drivers passing through the region, adjusting schedules and route planning in advance will be necessary to avoid delays.

Although the work will cause temporary inconvenience, it is essential for maintaining the long-term strength of critical transport links. The bridge upgrades are vital to keeping the Castle Cary to Taunton rail line running smoothly, which is a key route in the south-west of England. The improved bridge structure will also enhance safety for vehicles travelling underneath, reducing future risks of unplanned closures or emergency repairs that could severely disrupt mobility.

For those planning travel in Somerset this summer, the closure of the A378 highlights the importance of staying informed about infrastructure updates. Travellers are advised to monitor local transport reports, use alternative routes when necessary, and anticipate extended travel times during peak periods. Although short-lived, the closure highlights how necessary repair works can significantly affect travel routes and overall accessibility throughout the West Country.