A MAJOR scheme to improve safety at an accident blackspot in Bridgwater has got underway - after years of campaigning by residents.

Engineers from Somerset County Council have started a two-week project in Wills Road, which will see the installation of new white lines, traffic islands to help pedestrians cross the road and more bus stops.

It follows a 25-year fight for work to be carried out and has been welcomed by residents.

They say they have complained about the speed of motorists tearing down the road, and there have been three crashes there over the past year.

Brian Withers, who lives on Shellthorn Grove just off Wills Road, said: “Myself and neighbours have been writing to our MP since 1991 about the problems on Wills Road.

“There have been three collisions in the last year alone which have required people to be cut out of cars.

“The problems start around Evesham Drive – the corner there is on a camber which runs into the kerb. I think it is only pure luck that no-one has been killed before.”

The plans include the installation of illuminated islands along the road, heavy white lining, highlighted bus stops and other measures with the aim of slowing down drivers and minimise traffic on the road.

Somerset County Council has also pledged to back future plans for two zebra crossings to be installed along the stretch of road.

The works started on December 1 and will continue for two weeks.

Cllr Leigh Redman, who helped submit the plans on behalf of the residents, said he was thrilled the works were starting.

Cllr Redman said: “Residents have for years struggled with speeding cars and accidents because people were driving too fast and in a dangerous way.

“This is the first stage of a transformation program I have been working on for many years.

“Consultation with local residents has helped direct the proposal.

“For more than three years I have been working to get this work actioned, seeing the contractors start gives me great satisfaction as it will mean a great deal to those who live locally.

“I am hopeful that this will help reduce the number of accidents and improve safety for everyone that live on or use Wills road.”

A spokesman for Somerset County Council said: “Work has now started on a Small Improvement Scheme to improve safety along Wills Road.

“This will see the installation of traffic islands, a new dropped crossing and bus stop improvements, as well as new signs and line markings.

“This scheme was developed in consultation with the local community and should be completed by Christmas, weather permitting.”

For more information about the Small Improvement Scheme and the plans for Wills Road visit somerset.gov.uk/policies-and-plans/schemes-and-initiatives/small-improvement-schemes/