A36 to close until spring 2025 for safety improvement works

The southbound embankment requires stabilisation following the discovery of cracks in the footpath alongside the carriageway.

This will prevent further movement and ensure the safety of the main carriageway.

Cracking was first discovered in the footpath of the A36 between Limpley Stoke Viaduct and Limpley Stoke Village, after which survey works were undertaken to assess the cause and extent of the issue.

The road was initially closed in August for nine weeks, reopening in October to allow for works on the A350 and M4.

The A36 at Limpley Stoke will be closed to finalise essential safety improvement works (Image: National Highways) The A36 Warminster Road will be fully closed between Limpley Stoke and Monkton Coombe from 9pm on Sunday, November 10, until the spring.

A diversion will be in place for northbound traffic via the A361, A350, and A4, while taller vehicles are advised to use the A36, A4, A4174, M32, M4, A350, and A361, and southbound traffic should follow the same routes in reverse.

Access to properties within the closure will be maintained, with traffic marshals on hand to assist.

Hugh Campbell, senior project manager for National Highways, said: "Safety is our number one priority, and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause but need to fix the root of the problem to ensure it doesn’t happen again and that motorists and pedestrians remain safe at all times.

"We understand that road closures are frustrating, but by fully closing the road, we can get this scheme done safely and quickly, causing less disruption overall.

"Once it's all complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come."

The repair work will involve the installation of a concrete piled wall and capping beam to stabilise the embankment, as well as new drainage and pavement.

The works will require clearing vegetation and excavation of the cracked pavement sections.

The team will also install netting on the rock cutting above the northbound carriageway and undertake repairs to the viaduct and retaining walls in the area.

During the first closure stage, the team completed vegetation clearance, utility work, and enabling works such as rock descaling.

Piling for a retained wall that will stabilise the carriageway will start immediately and last until February, with drainage improvements to the carriageway also taking place.

National Highways said all diversion routes have been agreed to keep disruption as minimal as possible.