Holmsley Passage closed by Hampshire County Council during A35 bridge work

DRIVERS have been stopped using a narrow New Forest cut-through while diversions are in place during lengthy work to replace Holmsley Bridge on the A35.

Hampshire County Council noted motorists had been using Holmsley Passage, which runs between the A35 and Station Road/Wilverley Road, near Burley, to avoid the existing diversion while the main road and C10 are shut.

Fearing long-term damage to verges, HCC highlighted the road was not wide enough for vehicles to pass side-by-side, and announced Holmsley Passage would be kept closed until 30th June with a signed diversion in place.

“The verges along Holmsley Passage have been damaged and have had to be repaired on a number of occasions,” a spokesperson said.

“The decision to close the road is to prevent any other potentially long-term damage to verges.”

The council added that letters about the closure had been sent to local residents, who would still be allowed access to reach their properties.

As reported by the A&T, problems with the foundations means the road closure, in place until 8th April, will take longer than first thought as the bridge is replaced in a £5.5m project.

Enquiries about the Holmsley Bridge replacement work, which is due to run until April, can be emailed to roads@hants.gov.uk

People can report highways issues online at hants.gov.uk/transport/roadmaintenance

Highways issues requiring urgent attention can be reported by calling 0300 555 1388 or 101 outside of office hours.