At its Full Council meeting on 18 December 2025, Bridgwater Town Council agreed to further investigate and cost the installation of new directional signage along Taunton Road and Broadway with the aim to encourage heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) to use Squibbers Way rather than Taunton Road, reducing congestion and improving safety for residents.
Cllr Tim Mander, Chair of the Transport Forum, explained,
“The Town Council was approached by a resident of Taunton Road who felt more could be done to encourage heavy goods vehicles to use Squibbers Way rather than Taunton Road. The Transport Forum supported the idea and a productive meeting was held with an officer from Somerset Highways. Whilst we now await some more detailed proposals, the initial cost estimate was certainly within the bounds of affordability.
“The final scheme will of course go back to full Council, but what is proposed is about changing the habits of HGV drivers, not about restricting domestic vehicles.”
The proposal forms part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to improve traffic flow and safety in Bridgwater, while supporting local residents’ concerns.
Squibbers Way was designed as a strategic route for larger vehicles and better signage could help ensure it is used as intended.
Further details, including costings and design proposals, will be considered in the New Year before any final decision is made.