Still time to have your say on proposals to improve Salisbury area junctions

Wiltshire Council is asking people to have their say on proposed improvements for drivers, bus users, cyclists and pedestrians at three junctions in the Salisbury area before the engagement period ends on 18 July.

The proposals would see Exeter Street roundabout, Harnham gyratory, and Park Wall junction all reconfigured to increase capacity for motor vehicles, with extra traffic lanes added to improve journey times and reduce queues.

The scheme will also improve cycling and walking links in the city, linking to existing active travel routes to make it easier to choose to travel by bike or on foot.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: "We want to hear people's views on these proposals, particularly local knowledge that may highlight specific issues or improvements we can make to the plans. Indeed, we have already received some excellent suggestions to improve the scheme, both in the online survey and during our engagement sessions.

"As we are unable to take up any extra land for these junctions, we have to work within the physical constraints of each site, and this is why we really want to tap into local people's views to make the proposals as effective as possible.

"These improvements are not a cure-all for Salisbury's traffic problems - we know there are issues on the A36 that need to be addressed with Highways England - but these are positive solutions that will improve vehicle capacity, improve journey times and provide better facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

"It's also important to note that this is an ongoing conversation; once this engagement exercise ends, there will be further opportunities for people to have their say on the scheme.

"If approved, the project is expected to cost around £15m, which is significant investment to improve travel in Salisbury and the surrounding areas."

Once the engagement is complete, the feedback will be used to help form the Outline Business Case, which will be submitted to the Department for Transport for review, with a decision on the funding expected by the end of the year.

The proposals are part of a range of projects in Salisbury that will help to reinvigorate the city, including the Future High Street Fund projects to improve Fisherton Street and the station welcome for visitors; the River Park project to alleviate flooding and provide leisure facilities; and the development of a cultural quarter in the city - plus much more.

To find out more and take the survey, people should go to https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/highways/salisbury-junctions