COMMUTERS and villagers who have endured months of roadworks on the A39 are rejoicing now work is completed.

The busy stretch of road between Minehead and Bridgwater has been subjected to traffic chaos while a roundabout was built as part of road upgrades for Hinkley Point C.

Work began in February and the new Sandford Hill Corner roundabout was officially opened last Wednesday, signalling the end of road works in that area.

The news was welcomed by readers using the Mercury Facebook page.

Dee Puplett-Corner said: “The construction of this roundabout started just after I was relocated to Cannington after our home flooded in Moorland; it has been the bane of our lives!

“It’s added anywhere from half an hour to the longest time of 2hrs 15mins! And with five children to transport to schools and places of work plus work ourselves it has been an added pressure we could have well done without!

“I think the entirety of Bridgwater and surrounding areas will be relieved to see the back of construction workers on the A39.”

Vicki Lorraine Davies said: “Although we've spent hours sat in traffic over the weeks I think the stress of getting back and forth has added years to me!

“I was so shocked and happy to see it open properly today; and nearly two months earlier than they said. Fantastic news for all I reckon!”

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 roundabout open.

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.”

EDF said 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 in preparation for Hinkley C.

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