Work to future-proof the A38/A368 crossroads between Churchill and Langford
The Churchill traffic improvement scheme aims to alleviate congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance both current and future bus services. Under the approved design, the existing crossroads will be transformed into a roundabout with smart traffic signals.
The infrastructure improvements to the crossroads include:
- Converting the crossroads where the A38 and A368 meet between Langford and Churchill into a modern roundabout, complete with smart traffic signals. This upgrade will improve traffic flow, allowing the junction to handle a higher volume of vehicles than is currently possible.
- Implementing smart signals at all four approaches to the roundabout, with prioritisation for buses and the A38, ensuring smoother traffic movement and supporting public transport efficiency.
- Installing four controlled crossings on each arm of the roundabout to provide safer access for pedestrians and cyclists, enhancing overall safety and mobility.
- Building new pavements around the junction to improve pedestrian safety and ensure safer movement for all users.
- Planting five semi-mature trees as part of the landscaping scheme. While some trees will be removed due to construction, most are nearing the end of their life. New, more resilient trees will be planted in collaboration with the council’s tree officer.
- Introducing a bus-only lane on the west side of the roundabout, enabling buses traveling along A368 Dinghurst Road to easily access the bus stop. This lane will also be available for use by community minibuses, improving public transport access
The current junction is already at capacity, often congested during peak times, and is expected to face even greater traffic volumes with the expected increase of housing, population and road users. To address these challenges, the new signalised roundabout will be implemented, designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and provide a safer, more efficient route for all users.
Included in the work plan, the council will carry out highway maintenance in the area. This includes road resurfacing, drainage upgrades, improved traffic signals at crossings, and enhanced street lighting to benefit all users. By incorporating these essential upgrades into the scheme, local maintenance budgets are freed up to be spent on other priority areas across North Somerset.
The works have been carefully planned to minimise disruption. The A38 is a key part of the North Somerset region, so the project is being managed to reduce impact on the network as much as possible. While this may extend the overall timeline, ensuring minimal disruption remains the top priority.
Current programme of works
- 11-17 May – Traffic management
- 11-22 May – Off-peak lane closure
- 5 June – 27 August – 24-hour lane closure: Bus Gate & Northwest Quadrant
- 28 August – 22 October – Southwest Quadrant works
- 23-28 October – Off-peak 2-way signals and lane closure
- 5 June – 29 October – 24-hour lane closure: A38 Southbound
- 25 August – 30 October – Main Gyratory East works
- 2 November – 20 November – Narrow lanes with off-peak lane closures: Roundabout
- 23 November – 28 January – 24-hour lane closure with narrow lanes: Southeast Quadrant
- 29 January – 16 February – Off-peak lane closures with narrow lanes: Splitter Islands
- 17 February – 5 March – Off-peak lane closures with narrow lanes: Splitter Islands
These dates are subject to change with an earlier completion date anticipated than currently planned.