RESIDENTS can find out more about plans to widen the A31 in Ringwood.

The plans will be unveiled in a series of ‘in-person’ and live ‘webinar’ events where people will be able to hear more details about the improvements, and how traffic will be managed during the work.

The plans

Under the plans, the two bridges on the westbound carriageway over the River Avon and Bickerley Millstream will be replaced, with the westbound carriageway being widened from two lanes to three between the Ringwood and Verwood junctions.

This, National Highways says, will provide much-needed road capacity and reduce congestion on this stretch of road.  

Changes will also be made to improve facilities for walkers and cyclists in the area and link with routes in and around the area.

Road investment

The A31 at Ringwood was identified as an area needing investment, and forms part of the Government’s £15.2bn Road Investment Strategy to be delivered between 2020 – 2025.

National Highways project manager Daniel Kittredge said:  “Our plans to replace the two bridges and widen the westbound A31 at Ringwood will increase capacity, help reduce journey times and improve safety. 

“As we get closer to the start of work we are keen to share as much information as possible with the local community and road users, and provide an opportunity for people to ask any questions they have. 

"I encourage anyone interested in the scheme to come along to one of our public information events to find out more about the improvements to the A31 at Ringwood and see what we will be doing as we prepare to start work.” 

Information events

There are a number of sessions taking place on Microsoft Teams and also in person at Ringwood Town Council and the Verwood Hub where people can book a 30-minute session with one of the team. Places at all events will be issued on a first come, first served basis.

They will provide full details of the planned work and time scales, including when a number of slip roads will be closed, and planned diversion routes.

The A31 public information events will take place on the following dates:

  • Tuesday September 21, 2pm-3.30pm on Microsoft Teams
  • Thursday September 23, 1pm-5pm at Ringwood Town Council by appointment only
  • Monday September 27, 1pm-5pm at Verwood Hub by appointment only
  • Tuesday September 28, 2pm-3.30pm on Microsoft Teams
  • Thursday September 30, 11am-12.30pm on Microsoft Teams

How to book a place

Anyone interested in attending can book a place by emailing a31ringwood@highwaysengland.co.uk stating which session they would like to attend.

For more information visit: https://highwaysengland.co.uk/our-work/south-east/a31-ringwood-road-widening/

 

Get more Forest Journal news.

You can also like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.

Email newsdesk@salisburyjournal.co.uk with your comments, pictures, letters and news stories.