Plans to close the top section of Silver Street (B3355) in Midsomer Norton from 12th November have been pushed back and the project partners have agreed to work to improve communication with the community.

There was general dismay in mid-October when B&NES issued notice that it intended to make an order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to temporarily close a section of Road at the top of Silver Street, Midsomer Norton, for a maximum period of seven months commencing 12th November.

Responding to community feedback, the aim now is to have the road closed for as short a time as possible and the contractors have been working with B&NES Council to try and achieve this – particularly given the importance of the lead-up to Christmas for local businesses in the town, who are already facing reduced footfall. As soon as plans have been confirmed a new date will be announced.

In the meantime, the various parties involved have come together to form a Community Engagement Project Team in order to ensure that in future they can speak with a single voice, giving clear and accurate information to the general public, residents affected, schools and the business community. The team will include B&NES Council, ISG (the contractor), Norton Hill School, the Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce, Town Council and the two Midsomer Norton Redfield B&NES Councillors.

“It is great to see that those involved in the Silver Street Project are responding to community concerns. In the meantime, Midsomer Norton and Norton Hall Farm are open for business as usual – so please let’s support our local traders,” said Tina Veater, Chairman of the Somer Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The eventual closure of Silver Street will be between the junction with Charlton Road and the Somerset County Council Boundary (outside Midsomer Norton Rugby Club).

The closure is required for utility works being carried out via the main contractor, ISG, the firm working to prepare for the new school currently under construction. It is understood that the roadworks are to be carried out in five phases, the implication being that the closure restrictions may not be in effect for the whole period.

An Open Evening is being held by members of the ISG team to look at the plans for the new school and highways improvements at Midsomer Norton Town Hall Assembly Room on 29th November from 5.30 p.m. – 7.30 p.m.