Somerset Council has announced plans to improve safety at the perilous Miner's Arms Junction near Priddy, known for frequent and severe traffic incidents.

There have been 35 documented collisions at this site over the past two decades, including 11 serious crashes and three fatalities.

Starting April 29, the junction where the B3135 meets the B3134 will see extensive safety enhancements.

The council's contractor, Octavius, will undertake the work, which includes involves junction realignment, including a new section of road and associated landscaping; signing; lining; drainage work and a reduced speed limit .

It is anticipated most of the work will be done using temporary traffic lights, although some short closures will be required and advance notice of these will be given nearer the time. 

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council's Executive Lead Member for Transport and Digital said: "Many people will be familiar with this difficult junction – it was identified as priority some years ago but due to the scope of the work required it has taken some time to identify and ringfence funding for this. 

"I'm really pleased to see this happening – the statistics speak for themselves, something has to be done. 

"We appreciate there may be some minor disruption while our contractor does the work, which we will keep to a minimum. I think we can agree it's worth it to ensure the chance of death or serious injury on this junction is significantly reduced."