The A303 has long been a vital artery connecting London and the South West of England. Winding through rolling countryside and past iconic landmarks like Stonehenge, it serves not only as a major transport link but also as a symbol of Britain’s evolving infrastructure. In 2025, the A303 finds itself at the centre of national debate, with major developments, ongoing repairs, and the cancellation of a controversial tunnel project all making headlines.
A Road Steeped in History
The A303 traces its origins back to the 1930s. Over the decades, it has become synonymous with holiday traffic, local commerce, and the annual summer migration to Devon and Cornwall. The route’s importance has only grown, with sections upgraded to dual carriageways to cope with increasing demand. Yet, around a third of the road remains single carriageway, creating notorious bottlenecks and sparking calls for further investment.
The Stonehenge Tunnel: A Vision Cancelled
For years, the most ambitious plan for the A303 centred on the stretch near Stonehenge. The proposed tunnel aimed to hide traffic from the famous stones, ease congestion, and protect the World Heritage Site’s tranquillity. The project, estimated at £1.7 billion, would have delivered eight miles of dual carriageway, a two-mile tunnel beneath the ancient site, and new bypasses for local villages.
However, in July 2024, the government cancelled the Stonehenge tunnel scheme. The decision came after mounting concerns over costs and value for money. The Chancellor labelled the project a “low value, unaffordable commitment,” citing the estimated £2 billion price tag as unsustainable in the current economic climate. The move disappointed local councils and campaigners, who had spent years lobbying for the upgrade. Wiltshire Council expressed its frustration but pledged to continue working with stakeholders to find alternative solutions.
The Debate: Heritage, Economy, and Environment
The cancellation reignited debate over the A303’s future. Supporters of the tunnel argued it would have boosted the local economy, improved traffic flow, and enhanced the visitor experience at Stonehenge. Opponents raised concerns about potential damage to the archaeological landscape and the area’s unique character. UNESCO previously threatened to add Stonehenge to its “World Heritage in Danger” list if the tunnel went ahead, but later softened its stance after the government’s decision.
The government’s withdrawal has left the A303 near Stonehenge as a single carriageway, with congestion and delays persisting, especially during peak holiday periods. The question now is how to balance the needs of motorists, local communities, and heritage protection.
Ongoing Upgrades and Repairs
Despite the tunnel’s cancellation, significant work continues elsewhere on the A303. The Sparkford to Ilchester section in Somerset is undergoing a major upgrade. This three-mile stretch is being transformed into a dual carriageway, with new bridges and underpasses already completed. The latest phase involves traffic management changes, including contraflows and reduced speed limits, to ensure the safety of workers and drivers. National Highways has urged motorists to plan ahead and follow signage to minimise delays.
Elsewhere, the A303 is seeing routine maintenance and resurfacing. Overnight closures are scheduled for sections near Bullington Cross and the A36, with diversions in place to keep traffic moving. These works are part of a wider effort to improve safety and reliability on the route, which carries thousands of vehicles daily.
Safety Concerns and Recent Incidents
Safety remains a pressing issue on the A303. In June 2025, a fatal collision near Charnage highlighted the risks associated with single carriageway sections. The incident, involving multiple vehicles, resulted in one death and serious injuries. Police have appealed for witnesses and urged drivers to remain vigilant, especially in areas where roadworks or traffic management are in place.
National Highways continues to monitor accident rates and has implemented measures such as lower speed limits and improved signage during works. The agency emphasises that the primary goal is to keep all road users safe while essential upgrades are completed.
Economic and Social Impact
The A303 is more than just a road; it is a lifeline for the South West. It supports local businesses, tourism, and the agricultural sector. Recent plans for a new service station near Yeovil aim to create up to 90 jobs, offering a boost to the local economy. The development will feature popular food outlets, electric vehicle charging points, and rest facilities, reflecting changing travel habits and the push for greener transport options.
Local leaders have stressed the importance of continued investment in the A303. They argue that a modern, reliable route is essential for the region’s growth and resilience. While the cancellation of the Stonehenge tunnel is a setback, other improvements are helping to keep the South West connected.
What Next for the A303?
Looking forward, the A303’s future remains uncertain but hopeful. Upgrades like the Sparkford to Ilchester scheme are set to ease congestion and improve safety. However, the challenge of the Stonehenge bottleneck persists, with no clear solution on the horizon.
Transport experts suggest that a mix of targeted improvements, better traffic management, and investment in alternative routes may offer the best path forward. The government has pledged to keep the situation under review, working with local authorities and heritage groups to find a compromise.
