A key route over the Somerset Levels is now closed off until the early-autumn as a major roadworks scheme reaches its next phase.

The A361 provides a key link between Taunton and numerous Somerset villages, connecting up with both the A39 to Street and Glastonbury and the A372 towards Langport.

Temporary traffic lights have been in effect on the bridge over the River Parrett in Burrowbridge since June 29, with Somerset Council upgrading the existing lights as part of its ongoing upgrade to traffic signals across the county.

The road will be inaccessible to all motor vehicles until at least September 3, with motorists facing a 21-mile diversion in order to travel from one side of the small village to the other.

The existing traffic signals on either approach to the bridge are more than 30 years old and are nearing the end of their service life – as was the case with the lights at the Dunster Steep junction near Minehead and on the A39 Westway in Street, both of which were recently upgraded.

Unless the lights are replaced, they risk failing and causing lengthy disruption for both motorists and pedestrians on one of rural Somerset's busiest roads.

Under the ongoing scheme, part of the existing kerbs near the bridge will be widened, providing further room for pedestrians where the main road meets the River Parrett Trail long-distance walking route.

The existing signalised crossing on the western side of the bridge will be replaced and upgraded, with battered kerbs on the eastern approach to the bridge also being repaired or replaced.

A long stretch of the A361 will be resurfaced at the end of the scheme through overnight closures, providing motorists with a smoother journey through the village and on the approach to Burrow Mump (which is operated by the National Trust).

The full closure of the road was originally due to begin on July 23, but was pushed back to Monday (August 3) following lobbying from local councillors to avoid a clash with other roadworks in Langport.

During the full closure, the A361 will be closed in both directions constantly – though crossing facilities will remain in place and access for residents and businesses (including The King Alfred Inn) will be maintained at all times.

Further details of these and other roadworks in your area can be found by visiting www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/roadworks-and-travel.

Throughout the scheme, members of the public can contact the project's public liaison officer Syed Shah by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07812 449605.

During the full road closure, traffic wishing to access the villages east of Burrowbridge will be diverted back along the A361 to the Walford Cross junction, turn right on the A38 through North Petherton, move through Bridgwater town centre and then take the A372 out towards Westonzoyland and Othery.

Motorists wishing to reach Taunton from the eastern side of Burrowbridge will follow the same diversion in reverse, adding up to 21 miles to journeys in each direction.

While small vehicles may be able to use local roads to achieve a shorter journey, these routes will not be officially advertised as part of a formal diversion.

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