RESIDENTS have had their say on the A31 improvement proposals at Ringwood – with West Street and petrol garage closures at the centre of their views.

Following an open forum at Ringwood Gateway, councillors discussed the observations they would like to put to Highways England.

In their finalised response to the plans, the council added the recommendation to close the petrol station on the eastbound A31 between the West Street slip road onto the A31 and the Verwood turn-off for safety reasons.

In a discussion before full council, members of the public said closing the petrol station would improve safety far more than closing West Street, which is the planned course of action set out by Highways.

Cllr Chris Treleaven said: “We propose direct access to the petrol station from the A31 be stopped on the same safety grounds as crossing access is a danger to motorists and the public.”

The public were overwhelmingly in favour of reducing the speed limit on the A31.

The council also raised concerns about proposed work on the A338 between Blackwater and Cooper Dean due to take place at the same time as the A31 development.

Members also recommended increased signage before Ringwood on the A31 to deter motorist from using the town as a rat run during the works.

New Forest District Council is set to finalise its views on the plans on Wednesday.