PICTURES: Squibbers Way in Bridgwater declared open

A spectacular squibbing display featured in the opening ceremony of the Colley Lane relief road, which aims to cut travel time for drivers making their way through the town.

Representatives from Somerset County Council, main contractor Whitemountain, Bridgwater Carnival and other guests gathered to officially open the new link road on Monday evening (December 16).

A squibbing team led by Bridgwater Carnival took to their positions on the new Crossways Bridge to dazzle spectators with a sparkling 90-second firework display.

This was then followed by a procession of illuminated cyclists from The Bridgwater Way and the Guy Fawkes Carnival cart, which became the first vehicle to travel the length of the new road.

Councillor John Woodman, Somerset County Council cabinet member for highways, who took part in the squibbing, said: “This was a fantastic occasion and a fantastic way to celebrate the opening of Squibbers Way.

“Squibbing is unique to Bridgwater and we’re thrilled to have been able to listen to the public and literally put squibbing on the map.

"This new road will make such a difference to so many across Bridgwater by taking lorries off Taunton Road.

"Huge thanks to our contractors Whitemountain, who have completed an extremely challenging engineering project to the very highest of standards and have also contributed greatly to the local community and economy while they’ve been working here.

"Thanks also to everyone at Bridgwater Carnival who gave up their time and expertise to put on this sparkling display and make tonight such a memorable occasion."

SPECTACULAR: Squibbers during the opening event

Whitemountain’s project manager on Squibbers Way said: “The Whitemountain team have enjoyed delivering this intricate, complex and challenging Civil Engineering project.

"We are delighted to have transformed the town of Bridgwater by constructing two new bridges and a much needed access road to ease congestion for residents and businesses.

"Our project delivery team have been embraced by the local community and supported by local businesses suppliers. We have worked with and fundraised for many local charities such as The Brainwave Centre and Bridgwater Foodbank.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the town of Bridgwater for welcoming our team to the community, and enjoyed a professional working relationship with the Somerset County Council team."

North Petherton's mayor Cllr Alan Bradford said this would be an important road for the people of North Petherton as well as Bridgwater.

"It has been a long time coming but I really hope it will help take the pressure off of Junction 24," he said.

"The quality of the workmanship has been outstanding."

Jonathan Rossiter of Bridgwater, pictured above, put forward the name Squibbers Way.

"Squibbing is a tradition unique to Bridgwater and it feels really good to be here today," Mr Rossiter said.

"I was delighted when I saw my suggestion was shortlisted and even more so when it was chosen as the winner.

"Taking part in the squibbing is one of the best feelings ever."

Mike Crocker, president of Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee, said the carnival was delighted to play a part in the event - and to have a memorial in the town - after the public voted for the name of the route.

“Our carnival and its associated activities continue to increase in popularity every year, and having a road named after our squibbing tradition is fantastic recognition," he said.

“The fact the road was voted for and named by members of the public just goes to show how proud local people are of Bridgwater Carnival and its colourful history, and I would like to personally thank everybody who voted for Squibbers Way.”

Squibbers Way is a £18.4 million road linking Marsh Lane to Parrett Way and was previously referred to as the Colley Lane Southern Access Road.

It is designed to help ease congestion along Taunton Road and Broadway by providing an alternative route from the M5 for lorries serving the Colley Lane estate.

The road also opens up brownfield land in the area for development, supporting the delivery of planned housing and employment land, the council says.