THE likely location of Winchester's second park-and-ride scheme could be revealed next month.

Hampshire County Council has wanted to create one on the city's southern fringes for several years. If built, the authority says it will be larger than the existing park-and-ride scheme at Bar End, which was extended in 2004.

The sticking point in delivering the project has been finding a suitable site on the city's southern outskirts.

Last year, the county suggested using land beside Badger Farm Road, near Bushfield Camp roundabout. The proposals were criticised by Compton Village Association and parish council members.

They argued that building at Badger Farm Road would result in more motorists driving through the village. A better option, they said, would be a plot beside Hockley Link roundabout, formerly used by contractors building the M3. Not only is it nearer the motorway, but would be less likely to increase traffic in Compton.

Earlier this year, the county held a series of exhibitions about the project and asked residents for their views. Around 1,600 attended, and more than 700 filled out questionnaires.

The county is now studying the feedback, ahead of a decision by its executive member for environment, Cllr Mel Kendal.

Winchester City Council leader, Cllr George Beckett, who also represents Compton, said he hoped the county would heed the responses, adding that the parish council and the majority of villagers still favoured the Hockley Link option. "I'm hoping that the announcement Cllr Kendal will make will be in line with what the parish council has called for," said Cllr Beckett.

The decision is expected on November 14. However, several hurdles would still remain, the county said, such as securing funding and planning permission. But if all goes well, the authority believes the park-and-ride scheme could open in 2009.

Cllr Kendal added: "With more than 14,000 commuter trips into Winchester by car every day, we see park-and-ride as a vital element in reducing congestion in the city centre.

"Currently, the total capacity is 780 spaces and we predict a need for extra capacity within the next two years. The new scheme will more than double the number of spaces available.

"We're very grateful to the many members of the public, parish councils and other stakeholders who took the time to attend the exhibitions and give us their views, which will be reflected in the final site selection."