A38 local questions and answers

In this section we have answered some of the key issues, questions, and concerns that have been raised by residents about the A38 major road network.

The outline business case for the A38 MRN identified £30.9m needed for the scheme. 

In detailed design we will get a better understanding of the costs being presented to the Department for Transport in the scheme's full business case. 

The Department for Transport still needs to agree final costs based on the full business case (FBC).

The scheme includes new pedestrian crossings, links with the Strawberry Line, and new shared use paths. 

In addition, the general road capacity improvements can help reduce risk of road traffic collisions. This allows for safer routes around the area that people can use with confidence. 

We’ll aim to keep traffic moving and reduce the use of temporary traffic lights during construction. 

We will also look to do work overnight and at less busy times.

However, it will not be possible to avoid disruption completely. 

We are also looking at how we can phase the A38 works so that they take place at times that do not clash with other projects taking place on the road network. 

The scheme will help to create capacity in the road network that will provide some of the necessary infrastructure to support new and existing homes. 

However, the exact location and number of new homes is subject to our Local Plan, now in development.  

Bristol Airport are required to fund the improvement works around the airport. This is part of planning conditions allowing them to expand to serve 12 million passengers per annum. 

The works themselves are being delivered by North Somerset Council. 

We have been working in partnership with Somerset Council since the start of the scheme. They have provided support through the outline business case. 

We are running separate design and engagement events to help inform the full business case. However, the business case will be a shared document with Somerset Council once submitted for review to the Department of Transport.

Though we are working in partnership, we will both use separate contractors to deliver the work in our respective local authority areas.