PLANS for a new junction on the M49 near Easter Compton have taken a big step forward with the announcement of a chosen design.

The two bridge-junction, which was one of three design options shortlisted for the scheme, will offer a connection between the Avonmouth and Severnside Enterprise Area, with new access and exit slip roads built on both sides of the junction to connect fully with both northbound and southbound traffic.

The proposal, part of the government’s £15billion road investment programme, uses the existing bridge at Farm Lane with a second bridge to be built immediately adjacent.

The design was presented at a public exhibition in Easter Compton in July last year, with residents, businesses and stakeholders being invited to offer feedback.

A further event is set to take place to give interested parties a more indepth look at the construction process of the £45million project.

Highways England south west regional director Andrew Page-Dove said: “We recognise the strategic importance of the Avonmouth and Severnside Enterprise Area as a key regional employment site and that is why we are helping to unlock economic growth in the area by building this new junction.

“Over the last few months we have worked hard to identify the best possible design for the junction and we are excited to share our plans with local stakeholders, businesses and the community.

“As well as boosting the local economy, the junction will also improve access to the regional road network and relieve traffic on local roads.”

Further work will now be done to focus on drainage and environmental requirements as well as pedestrian, cyclist and equestrian access, with work hoped to begin by the end of the year.

Simon Tothill, property and development director for Robert Hitchins Ltd, who own the Westgate 296-acre employment site with Harrow Estates plc, welcomed the investment, saying that it will be huge boost to the area.

“It will change the profile of Westgate dramatically, and unlock a large and incredibly well-located site which, already benefits from planning permission, for employment uses. It opens the door to significant economic activity and will provide for thousands of new jobs.”

Further information can be found at www.highways.gov.uk/roads/roads-projects/m49-avonmouth-junction/