THE council is working on a "major project" to improve safety for people walking and cycling in Swaythling.

Traffic measures will include reducing the speed limit to 20mph and adding two speed humps near Connaught and Montefiore halls of residence.

Southampton City Council has joined forces with the University of Southampton for the Wessex Lane scheme, funded by central government via Transforming Cities Fund and additional funding from the University of Southampton. 

The council also aims to improve safety for pedestrians by adding a raised crossing point opposite Montefiore Halls.

To safely and efficiently construct these, this section of Wessex Lane will be closed for 12 days. Vehicle access to and from St Mary’s Church Road will be available by Wide Lane. 

A new crossing will also be installed across the entrance of Swaythling Railway Station for pedestrian access.

The bus stop near the Fleming Arms pub will be moved closer to the railway station, to improve connectivity between bus and rail.

This would also help physically and visually impaired pedestrians as they will be able to clearly see a safe crossing to and from the bus stop. 

The scheme aims to eventually make e-scooters, pedal bikes and e-bikes available for hire near the entrance to Montefiore Halls, to make it easier to travel sustainably.

The works follow a consultation with the community and will be delivered by the council’s Highways Partners, Balfour Beatty Living Places.

The works will take around five weeks and start on Monday, August 15.

Councillor Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Transport and District Regeneration comments: “I am delighted that we have been working in partnership with the University of Southampton, it has really allowed us to capture a true picture of what is needed in the Wessex Lane area.

"Implementing the traffic calming measures and improving accessibility for all will make the area safer for everyone.”

Adam Tewkesbury, Associate Director of Environment & Sustainability at the University of Southampton said: “We are really pleased to see these improvements being made to Wessex Lane, which will improve road safety and access to bus stops for our students and also provide a valuable link in the wider cycle network across Southampton.

"The university’s contribution towards the scheme reflects our commitment to supporting sustainable transport options in the city, working in partnership with the city council.”

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