THE new roundabout on the A39 between Bridgwater and Cannington has been officially opened this week.

It was part of a series of upgrades to local roads linked to the planned construction of a new power station at Hinkley Point.

Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for Business, Inward Investment and Policy, Cllr David Hall, joined EDF Energy project manager, Kevin Murray, in declaring the new Sandford Hill Corner roundabout open on Wednesday, June 18.

Cllr David Hall said: “Through effective joint working between EDF Energy, its contractor Aggregate Industries and Somerset County Council I’m delighted the scheme has been delivered ahead of schedule.

“I’d like to thank road users and local communities for their understanding and patience during the construction period.”

Work on this stretch of road began in February this year, with traffic being managed by temporary traffic lights while the roundabout was being constructed.

EDF says the work received a Considerate Constructors Scheme award, with the site being praised for ‘performance beyond compliance’.

EDF Energy's Kevin Murray said: “We’re pleased that road users can now enjoy a safer journey as we move into the busy summer holiday season and beyond.”

The energy company has agreed £16million funding of road improvements in Bridgwater, Cannington and West Somerset as part of a package of measures with local authorities to prepare for its construction.

Road improvements have already been delivered in Cannington and along the C182, the main road to Hinkley Point.

Further road improvements are set to begin in Bridgwater and West Somerset in the Autumn.