Motorists using the A36 route between Wilton and Bemerton will need to plan alternative journeys as essential road maintenance work is scheduled for three consecutive nights. National Highways has announced this temporary closure to implement safety improvements on this busy stretch of road. The work aims to enhance driving conditions through the application of a high-friction surface that reduces skidding risks, especially during adverse weather conditions that have recently affected the region, including severe UK weather that forced home evacuations as storms battered England and Wales.
Timing and details of the A36 overnight closure
The A36 road between Wilton and Bemerton will undergo temporary nighttime closures starting Monday, March 17 through Thursday, March 20, 2025. National Highways has carefully scheduled these works during overnight hours from 8:00 PM until 6:00 AM to minimize disruption to regular traffic flow. This strategic timing ensures the maintenance takes place when traffic volumes are typically at their lowest.
The primary purpose of these closures is to apply a specialized high-friction surface treatment, commonly known as anti-skid surfacing. This safety enhancement will significantly improve vehicle traction, particularly during wet or icy conditions. The application of this anti-skid surfacing requires complete road closure to ensure proper installation and drying time.
Property owners and residents directly affected by the closure area will maintain access to their homes and businesses throughout the maintenance period. The National Highways team will provide escorts through the work zone when necessary. Drivers should note that the road will function normally during daylight hours and throughout the weekend.
Weather conditions may impact the scheduled work, especially if heavy rainfall occurs. National Highways has indicated that potential delays could extend the maintenance period beyond the planned dates if unfavorable weather interferes with the application process.
Diversion routes during the A36 road maintenance
To accommodate traffic during the closure periods, comprehensive diversion routes will be clearly signposted in both directions. Motorists traveling through the area should familiarize themselves with these alternative routes to avoid unnecessary delays and confusion.
The main diversion route will direct traffic via the A360 and The Avenue. Signage will be prominently displayed beginning at St Paul’s roundabout in Salisbury to guide drivers along the alternative path. Additionally, a separate local diversion has been arranged specifically for Quidhampton residents and visitors.
The Quidhampton access route will follow this path:
- A3094 from Wilton
- New Bridge Road connecting to the city center
- A338 Churchill Way South heading north
- A36 Churchill Way East continuing the loop
- A36 Churchill Way North following the ring road
- A36 Churchill Way West completing the circuit
These carefully planned diversions aim to distribute traffic efficiently while maintaining access to all essential areas. Drivers unfamiliar with the local road network should allow extra journey time and follow the designated diversion signage rather than relying solely on satellite navigation systems, which may not reflect the temporary road closure.
Impact on local travel and recommended preparations
The A36 serves as a critical transport artery connecting Salisbury with Bath and represents an important route for both local commuters and commercial traffic. While the maintenance work has been scheduled during off-peak hours, travelers should anticipate some disruption and plan accordingly.
National Highways recommends that regular users of this route consider the following preparations:
- Plan journeys in advance, accounting for potential delays
- Consider alternative departure times outside closure hours if possible
- Follow official diversion routes rather than attempting shortcuts
- Allow extra travel time, particularly for essential or time-sensitive journeys
- Check for updates before traveling in case of schedule changes
The maintenance schedule comparison between different sections of the A36 improvement project is outlined below:
| Road Section | Closure Dates | Closure Times | Type of Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilton to Bemerton | March 17-20, 2025 | 8:00 PM – 6:00 AM | High-friction surfacing |
| St Paul’s Roundabout | No current closures | N/A | N/A |
| Churchill Way junctions | No current closures | N/A | N/A |
Safety benefits of the A36 improvement works
The implementation of high-friction road surfacing represents a significant safety enhancement for this stretch of the A36. This specialized treatment substantially reduces stopping distances, particularly in wet conditions, helping prevent accidents at critical locations such as approaches to junctions, pedestrian crossings, and sharp bends.
National Highways has emphasized that these improvements directly contribute to road safety for all users. The anti-skid surface provides vehicles with superior grip, reducing the risk of skidding incidents that can lead to serious accidents. This type of preventative maintenance forms part of the ongoing commitment to improve road infrastructure and reduce accident rates across the regional network.
While the temporary closures may cause short-term inconvenience, the long-term benefits include enhanced road safety, reduced accident rates, and lower maintenance requirements in the future. The high-friction surfacing typically provides years of improved skid resistance before requiring replacement, making it a cost-effective safety investment.
Motorists are reminded to observe temporary speed restrictions that may be implemented following the completion of the works while the new surface fully settles. National Highways apologizes for any inconvenience caused during these essential maintenance operations and appreciates the patience and cooperation of road users during this period.
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