Council updates on revised Salisbury junctions scheme

Thursday, 7 September 2023 01:00

Wiltshire Council is proposing improvements to two Salisbury road junctions to increase traffic capacity, reduce journey times and improve pedestrian and cycling shared-use facilities.

The proposed scheme, which has been revised following feedback from the local community, would include a new southbound lane at Harnham Gyratory to increase capacity and reduce congestion at this busy Salisbury junction. There would also be changes to the road markings on the Exeter Street roundabout to improve traffic flows.

The scheme also looks to move and widen the shared-use pedestrian/cycling path that runs from the southern side of New Bridge to Harnham Gyratory, with the wider path to move into the green space, without adversely affecting the mature trees there. As part of these works, the bus stop on New Bridge Road would be relocated to accommodate the new lane and a new pedestrian/cyclist priority crossing would be built on Britford Lane. The scheme would also see two new toucan crossings being installed, along with upgrades to existing crossings and widened footpaths.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This scheme aims to improve traffic flows on Harnham Gyratory to reduce congestion, while also making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to travel along this well-used route into the city centre.

“We’re planning to create an additional lane at Harnham Gyratory to increase capacity and also widen and extend the shared use cycling and walking path to enable more people to walk and cycle into the city with confidence.

“We are working closely with National Highways, which manages the A36 and is working on its own projects to reduce congestion on Southampton Road, to ensure that this scheme complements National Highways’ work. We will also be engaging with local stakeholders, such as Salisbury City Council, affected residents, utility companies and walking and cycling groups, to seek their views on the proposals.

“The next step for the scheme is for us to work on detailed designs, which we aim to complete in early 2024, and as the plan progresses, we’ll present regular updates at Salisbury Area Board meetings.”