Why are these works being carried out?
The works are being carried out to improve Winchester Road by introducing cycle provision, enhancing the road and pavements as well as resurfacing the carriageway. This will help provide a safer, more durable and more accessible route for all road users, including people walking, cycling, using public transport and driving.
Where will the works take place?
The works will take place from the junction of Thornhill Road through to the junction of Bassett Avenue.
Will Winchester Road be closed?
A northbound closure will be in place on Winchester Road for the duration of the works. This traffic management is needed to keep road users, pedestrians and our workforce safe while reconstruction takes place.
Why can’t the works be carried out 24 hours a day, seven days a week?
We understand that residents and businesses want the works completed as quickly as possible. However, working 24 hours a day would create significant noise and disruption for nearby homes and the wider community, particularly during evenings and overnight periods. The working approach therefore needs to balance completing the scheme safely and efficiently with reducing disruption wherever possible.
Will bins still be collected?
Yes. Waste and recycling collections will continue as normal. Please place bins out for collection in the usual way unless you are advised otherwise.
Will the works affect the buses?
Bluestar, the city’s bus company and Unlink have been liaised with prior to these works and will adapt their routes as appropriate, please visit Bluestar's website for additional information.
The U6H bus will divert via Hill Lane & Burgess Road, temporary stops will be located near Hollybrook Roundabout and between the junctions of Sherwood & Butterfield Road.
What should I do if I am expecting a large delivery?
If you are expecting a large delivery during the works, please contact our highways inbox in advance. The team on site will work with you to understand what is needed and, where possible, help facilitate access safely around the works.
Will access to homes and businesses be maintained?
Access will be maintained wherever it is safe and practical to do so. There may be times when arrangements need to be managed locally because of the nature of the works, but the team will aim to minimise disruption and support residents and businesses as much as possible.
Will pedestrians and cyclists still be able to get through?
Safe routes for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained wherever possible. Where routes need to change temporarily, appropriate signage and local arrangements will be used to help people move safely around the works.
Will a diversion route be in place?
Yes. A signed diversion route will be in place while the northbound closure is in operation. Please follow the on-street signage, as this will reflect the safest and most suitable route during the works. We advise road users not to rely solely on satellite navigation, as this may not show the temporary traffic arrangements accurately.
Will emergency access be maintained?
Emergency access will be maintained wherever required. The project team will work with relevant services so that appropriate arrangements are in place throughout the works.
Will there be any parking restrictions?
Temporary parking restrictions may be needed in some areas to allow the works to be carried out safely and efficiently. If restrictions are required, they will be clearly signed. Please do not park in restricted areas, as this can delay the works and may affect safe access for the site team and road users.
What if I have mobility needs, carers attending or medical appointments?
If you have specific access needs, mobility requirements, carers visiting, or medical appointments that may be affected by the works, please contact our highways inbox in advance. The team will do their best to understand your circumstances and support safe access arrangements wherever practical.
What is a continuous footway?
A continuous footway is where the pavement on a main road continues across the mouth of a side road junction, similar to how driveways are designed, to emphasise the pedestrian’s priority. Drivers on the side road should slow down, give way to any pedestrians waiting to cross, and then give way to traffic on the major road before pulling out. They can wait on the crossing once it is clear. Drivers should give way to pedestrians waiting as they turn onto or off any road, regardless of whether there is a continuous footway there (Highway Code rule H2)
Example of a continuous Footway in St Denys
What will happen to the planter at Thornhill Road?
The planter and bench will be kept as they are, and some of the bollards and guardrails will be removed or relocated to make space for the new pedestrian crossing. There will be no change to the motor vehicle restrictions here.
Why are signalised crossings proposed, rather than zebra crossings?
National design guidance from Active Travel England recommends that zebra crossings are used where less than 8000 vehicles per day travel along a road. This section of Winchester Road typically sees around 24,000 vehicles per day, nearly 3x this limit, so a signalised crossing is required to ensure safety and comfort for users.
How will these changes effect emergency vehicles, particularly ambulances?
We have consulted South Central Ambulance Service on these proposals, and they have no concerns about their crews’ ability to navigate the road layout proposed. We will continue to work with them as this scheme progresses and take on any feedback received.