Delays 'inevitable' as A326 expansion roadworks ramp up

COUNCIL chiefs have warned delays are "inevitable" as expansion work steps up on the southern end of the A326 next week.

From Monday there will be a road closure and traffic lights as part of the £8.1m scheme to expand seven junctions to boost capacity ahead of the planned Fawley power station development of about 1,500 homes.

Main Road East will be shut for about five weeks in both directions from Dibden Roundabout to Main Road North.

A Hampshire County Council spokesperson said the A326 in both directions will be unaffected by this restriction and diversion routes for Main Road East closure wil be signposted. There will be some traffic management around the junction.

At Hardley Roundabout there will be temporary traffic lights at off-peak times which are expected to be in place for 18 weeks.

Cllr Rob Humby, cabinet member for economy, transport and environment, said: “We will do all we can to minimise the disruption of these works to the travelling public, but delays will be inevitable.

"This is why I would encourage those that need to travel along the A326 plan their journeys in advance and leave extra time.”

He added: “This is a major scheme of work and is crucial to enabling traffic to flow as smoothly as possible in the future and includes improvements to walking and cycling facilities.

"Improving the A326 is a priority for the county council, and we are working on options for major improvements to the northern end of the route.

"However, any improvement to the northern end of the A326 is likely to involve major upgrade works for the road, public transport, and walking and cycling provision, and will need significant government funding.”

For updates visit www.hants.gov.uk/transport/transportschemes/a326southfawleywaterside