PLANS for the long-awaited Stubbington Bypass have been approved by council bosses.

Hampshire County Council’s regulatory committee has given the green light for the 3.5km road south of Fareham.

Campaigners have been calling for the road for many years to ease traffic issues in the area.

And they are now one step closer to reality after planning permission was granted for a bypass between Titchfield Road and Gosport Road.

There will also be improvements to parts of the B334 at Titchfield Road at its northern end, and Gosport Road at its southern end.

The bypass would be a single carriageway with two lanes as well as a shared use footway and cycleway.

County environment and transport chief Seán Woodward said: "Improving access to the Gosport and Fareham peninsula is a key priority for Hampshire County Council. Improvements to the highway network here will benefit local businesses as well as providing improved access for people to get to areas of education and employment."

"Seeing the Stubbington Bypass brought a step closer to reality will be welcome news to residents and local employers."