HAMPSHIRE Chamber of Commerce has said concerns have been raised to them about clashes between a number of multi-million pound road schemes.

As reported in the Chronicle, drivers are bracing themselves for disruption as highways bosses plan to turn a 10-mile stretch of the M3 into a ‘smart’ motorway in a bid to cut journey times.

The £139m project would be one of the biggest road schemes undertaken in south Hampshire in recent years, converting both carriageways between junction nine at Winnall, Winchester and junction 14 at Eastleigh.

But the works are expected to clash with two other major road schemes: improvements at M3 junction nine at Winnall from March 2021 to March 2023 and the M27 upgrade between junctions four and 11, between March this year and March 2021.

Mark Baulch, head of policy and representation at Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Hampshire Chamber of Commerce welcomes any improvements to the road network across the county.

“Delays and congestion are costing businesses thousands of pounds every week in lost wages and fuel costs as well as contributing to air quality issues in and around Winchester as well as further afield.

“Our members do have concerns about the number of schemes being proposed, with some potential for works clashing. Overall though, the message is that we need these schemes delivered as soon as possible.

“We should not lose sight of alternatives and also welcome continued discussions on potential improvements to rail services as well as buses, cycling and walking options.”

* Are these schemes the answer to growing congestion? Write to letters@hampshirechronicle.co.uk