Somerset Council has confirmed its decision to permanently close the B3191 at Cleeve Hill, Watchet, a vital coastal route, despite receiving more than 1,000 objections from residents and businesses.
The closure has been formalised through a Permanent Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), which not only shuts down the road but also removes the council’s legal duty to explore or provide an alternative route. The road was closed temporarily in 2023 following cliff erosion, but hopes had remained that a long-term solution would be found.
Farmer and local campaigner James Wright, who led the petition against the closure, said the decision shows “a complete failure of leadership and accountability” by the Liberal Democrats at County Hall.
“The Council only received 12 responses to its official consultation,” said Wright. “Over 1,000 people signed my letter, but they’ve been ignored. And by making the closure permanent, the Council has washed its hands of any duty to find a way forward.”
“What’s worse,” he added, “is that they delayed this decision until after the Dunster by-election. They knew it would be damaging to the Liberal Democrat campaign, so they waited. It’s shameful.”
The B3191 runs along the West Somerset coast and connects Watchet to surrounding villages like Blue Anchor and Old Cleeve. Residents argue it is more than just a road, it is a lifeline for emergency services and an alternative route when the A39 is closed.
With legal options now under discussion, including the potential for a judicial review, the fight to reroute the road is just beginning. But Wright says this should also serve as a wake-up call ahead of future elections.
“People are already asking how to help. Whether it’s a court challenge, or campaigning for change in 2027, the message is clear, West Somerset will not be ignored.”
