Somerset Council's biggest road resurfacing project in years is coming to an end this month, with key roads in the Shepton Mallet area set for final treatments. The programme, which began earlier this year, has seen more than 1,000,000 square metres of road surface dressed across the county – an area the size of 141 football pitches.

Shepton Mallet residents will see the final phase of the works, with specialist 'Kiely Lock' treatments being applied to secure loose chippings and extend the lifespan of the freshly resurfaced roads.

Upcoming road closures in the Shepton area include:

• B3081 Bruton Road, High Street, and Creech Hill Road, Evercreech and Milton Clevedon – 14/15 September (Closure 7am to 7pm)
• Broadway, Hanning Road, Old A303, Horton, and Green Lane, Stratton on the Fosse – 20-24 September (Closure 7am to 7pm)

In addition, the A37 Fosse Way, Lydford-on-Fosse, will be under convoy and stop/go working from 16 to 20 September (9.30am to 3pm).

Surface dressing is a vital maintenance technique used to seal the road, improve skid resistance, and prevent water damage that can lead to potholes. Somerset Council's Lead Member for Highways, Councillor Richard Wilkins, stressed the importance of these works: "Surface treatments help extend the life of our roads and reduce the need for more costly repairs down the line. It's essential to keeping our roads in good condition and preventing potholes."

While some roads will be closed for brief periods, access for residents and emergency services will be maintained during the works. The council has urged residents to be patient with any disruption as the final phase is completed.