A35 set for three weeks of traffic lights at Holmsley Bridge

MOTORISTS will have to contend with temporary traffic lights on one of the main routes through the New Forest as preparations begin for a £5.5m bridge replacement scheme

The signals will be installed for nearly three weeks on the A35 at Holmsley Bridge, near Burley, from tomorrow (Monday), as Hampshire County Council starts preliminary work.

There will be a lane closure during off-peak hours, 9.30am-4pm, and temporary two-way traffic lights will be in place. Weather conditions permitting, the work should be completed by 5th February.

The entire operation will replace the crumbling old bridge, which is under a 40mph temporary speed limit, with a new concrete crossing where it spans the C10 Station Road. The project includes a realignment of 380 metres of the A35.

Cllr Rob Humby, HCC cabinet member for economy, transport and environment, said: “We need to prepare the site before we replace the bridge, so this work will include clearance of trees and vegetation, followed by the installation of temporary timber fencing at the boundary between the works area and New Forest land.

“To minimise future disruption to those travelling in the area, Openreach BT will undertake their timber pole relocation at the same time.”

HCC said the engineers undertaking the work will take appropriate coronavirus precautions and adhere to social distancing on site.