A303 Dualling Project Nears Completion, Lanes Now Open

The initiative to expand a segment of the A303 to a dual carriageway is approaching its conclusion. The stretch of road connecting Sparkford and Ilchester now features both lanes operational on each carriageway, permitting vehicles to proceed at the national speed limit. According to Senior Project Manager Sian Hopkins, “The traffic management has gone and now the whole section is running.” Ms. Hopkins further stated, “We still have some work to do on the local roads and that will continue in the coming weeks.” National Highways commenced operations on this scheme in 2021, with the actual construction phase starting in 2022. National Highways reported that this three-mile segment of road accommodates an average daily volume of 23,500 vehicles. The expectation is that the newly dualled carriageway will alleviate traffic congestion and enhance travel durations. Senior Project Manager Sian Hopkins commented, “We have had some weather-related challenges, but the team has worked really hard.” The anticipated completion timeframe for the project is by winter 2024. Ms. Hopkins also mentioned, “We would like to do all the work this side of Christmas but we will just have to see what happens with the weather.”