FIVE Somerset roads could be closed to traffic in a bid to improve access for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

People are being urged to have their say over proposed locations for trials of Green Lanes – which see rural routes adapted to improve access to rural locations and the countryside.

The trials would see the routes closed as ‘through routes’ for motor vehicles.

Routes proposed for the trial are: Burcott Lane, Wells; Comeytrowe Road, Taunton; Neville’s Batch, Guerney Slade; Downend Road, Puriton; and Touches Lane, Chard.

Residents are being encouraged to give their thoughts on the plans as the council takes them forward.

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“If progressed, any changes would be put in as a trial to enable residents and businesses to try it out, with further consultation to inform any decision on whether any trial should be made permanent,” a council spokesperson said.

“This would also inform the council’s ambition to consider any further locations in the future.”

Residents and businesses near the affected routes should receive a letter detailing the proposals, with councillors, city, town and parish councils all notified.

Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and waste services, Councillor Richard Wilkins, said: “I would urge people to get involved, these locations provide a starting point for the council to explore simple interventions to try and make routes more attractive for local residents and people walking, cycling or horse riding – we want to hear people’s views so we can be as well-informed as possible when it comes to taking the next steps.”

Have your say on the Green Lanes plans for Somerset at somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/highways/greenlanes.

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Comeytrowe Road in Taunton is among those set to take part in the trial. Picture: Google