MAJOR work to a key route has been funded - allowing Southampton's port to expand bringing with it a £340m boost for the area.

Economic benefits are expected in the city after the Department for Transport agreed to spend £13.4 million on essential maintenance at the A35 Redbridge Causeway. 

The department said £340m will be generated in direct economic benefits by helping bring in housing and the port's expansion.

The work will prevent future lane closures and weight restrictions that would result in congestion and disruption. 

Being the only direct route for pedestrians and cyclists to cross the River Test, the works are set to improve current cycling and pedestrian facilities while maintaining access to the New Forest National Park.

Economic development boss at Southampton City Council, Cllr Sarah Bogle, welcomed the investment into what she called a "critical pinch point for travel between Southampton and the Waterside and New Forest". 

Daily Echo: A35 Redbridge Causeway. Photo by: Stuart Martin. A35 Redbridge Causeway. Photo by: Stuart Martin.

Cllr Bogle added the move shows "recognition of the importance of active travel options". 

The scheme has now received final approval, which means construction can now begin.

It is expected to be complete in November 2023, bringing with it "long-term resilience to the M27 and M3 motorway network". 

Councillor Edward Heron, the County Council’s Executive Lead Member for Transport and Environment Strategy, said he is "delighted" with the investment.

“The A35 dual carriageway, which crosses the River Test at Redbridge Causeway (four bridges), carries in excess of 60,000 vehicles a day and is also an important route for pedestrians and cyclists, providing safe passage over the river, the Southampton to Romsey railway line, and Redbridge Road.

READ MORE: Hampshire County Council announce £20million scheme for essential repairs to Redbridge Causeway

"It is also a key route which connects important economic hubs such as the City and Port of Southampton, and the Waterside area.

“We are grateful to Transport for South East (TfSE) who supported our bid to the DfT’s Major Road Network Fund. This funding success recognises the importance of this vital road, rail, walking and cycling route.”

The work is just phase 3 of a huge refurbishment project which is expected to be worth £25 million when complete. 

These bridges carry the eastbound carriageway of the A35 Redbridge Causeway over the River Test, the Redbridge to Romsey railway line and Test Lane / Old Redbridge Road, between Totton and Southampton. 

Some railway and parapet works to Redbridge Viaduct, which carries the westbound carriageway, are also being undertaken.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “We are committed to delivering world-class infrastructure in Southampton and Hampshire to ensure the local economy can truly thrive. 

“This £13.4 million in funding will improve connectivity and attract crucial economic investment to boost local employment and housing development, while giving motorists, cyclists and pedestrians the modern, safe and uncongested roads they deserve. 

The Department for Transport will provide £13.4m towards the project, with Hampshire County Council contributing a further £4.1 million.”

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News