Burnham-On-Sea Police were called several times to Berrow Road on Saturday when motorists ignored road closure signs and illegally moved barriers to try and pass through the roadworks.
The road is currently shut while Wessex Water carries out sewer repairs, however some motorists are ignoring the diversion signs to avoid having to drive nine miles around the closure.
Sgt Tracey Marlowe from Burnham Police told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The road is still closed and we urge motorists not to attempt to drive through. Anyone who is caught will be prosecuted.”
“It’s frustrating for everyone, but the road closure is in place for a good reason and we cannot allow the safety of people to be put at risk.”
Resident Dave Dunn told Burnham-On-Sea.com this afternoon: “We’ve seen several motorists today removing the barriers around the Wessex Water holes to drive through, ignoring the road closure signs.”
“Three coaches also drove through the closure area last night to get to Brean. Incredibly, the drivers are saying they didn’t see the road closure or diversion signs and the police have been called out several times.”
The roadworks, which started on Monday, are scheduled to finish on February 17th, but Wessex Water has told Burnham-On-Sea.com that they hope to finish the work early.
A small stretch of Berrow Road, near the junction with Golf Links Road, is shut and motorists are being directed along a nine-mile diversion route around East Brent and Brent Knoll instead.
A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “This essential work is being carried out to divert a surface water sewer and protect properties from flooding. We appreciate Berrow Road is a main road through Burnham-On-Sea and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
The closure has been criticised by local residents, businesses and motorists, with Berrow Parish Council and Burnham Chamber of Trade formally airing its concerns.
The Texaco petrol station in Berrow Road has seen a 66% drop in trade due to the work. A Burnham fire engine was turned back due to the roadworks on Thursday.
Pictured: Top, police at the scene on Saturday afternoon discussing the closure with motorists and residents. Above, the hole that is the causing the disruption and the barriers that have been moved by motorists
