Bird's nest holding up opening of C10 route near A35 at Holmsley bridge confirmed as sparrow's

A BIRD'S nest which has put motorists in a flap and delayed the opening of a key route under the A35 has been confirmed as that of a sparrow.

The C10 Station Road is shut underneath the main road, which was reopened after three months on 11th April when Holmsley bridge was replaced in a £5.5m project by contractors Knights Brown.

Despite promises by Hampshire County Council the C10 would also be ready for use shortly afterwards, the route stayed closed, and HCC confirmed yesterday (Thursday) it was because of a bird's nest.

This morning an HCC spokesperson confirmed the nest belonged to a sparrow.

It is illegal to take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.

HCC said an overhanging temporary support on the west side of the bridge could not be moved until the chicks leave, with a spokesman adding: "The nest is being closely monitored."

As reported in the A&T, drivers have been frustrated by the closure, with one complaining their trip between Burley and Ashley had taken nearly an hour.

A staff member at the Old Station Tea Rooms in Station Road said trade had continued to be affected by the closure.