Winchester M3 junction among county roads set for £450m improvements

Local roads are to have up to £450 million invested, according to figures announced this week.

The figures include schemes currently under construction or planned in the next five years.

The changes are among a £2.2 billion package outlined for the South East between now and 2021.

Major upgrades include enhancing capacity on the M3 between Winchester and Southampton and on the M27 between Southampton and Fareham.

The hard shoulders will be converted into a permanent running lane to provide additional capacity.

It was unclear if this will have safety implications.

The costs are:

* Work on the M27's Southampton junctions, up to £250m;

* Improvements to junction 9 at Winnall where the M3 intersects with the A34 and A272, £100 million;

* Improved sliproads at junction 10-11 (Bar End and Compton), up to £25 million;

* Similar work at junctions 12-14 at Eastleigh, up to £25 million;

* M271/A35 Redbridge roundabout upgrade, up to £25m;

* Work to reduce delays at the A31 at Ringwood, up to £25m.

Roads minister Andrew Jones said: “Roads are key to our nation's prosperity. For too long they have suffered from under-investment.

“The government has a long-term plan to secure the country's economic future. This £2.2 billion investment in the region's roads will directly benefit hardworking families across the South East.”

Simon Jones, South East regional director at Highways England, said: “Around 8.7 million people live and work in South East England, more than any other region, and our 932 miles of major roads are some of the busiest in Europe.

“It's vital that we continue to improve the existing road network as well, which is why we're investing over £200 million this year alone in resurfacing, improving technology and safety measures and other maintenance projects.

“The region's motorways and dual carriageways are vital for our economy and this huge investment will ensure they remain fit for purpose for many years to come.”