Major repairs to Bassett Avenue, the main road into Southampton from the M3, are scheduled to begin on Sunday 11 February and last for seven weeks (weather permitting).
The roadworks, between Chilworth Roundabout and Winchester Road, are likely to cause significant disruption for travellers to the city and the University, particularly at peak times, so please be prepared to alter your travel arrangements accordingly, plan your journey and allow extra time. If you are inviting visitors to campus during this period, please advise them of relevant diversions. Alternative routes will be signed.
Two phases of road closures
Phase one is expected to last four weeks and will require the 24-hour closure of Bassett Avenue to all inbound traffic for the duration. There will be two outbound lanes maintained and this will allow access for residents and outbound only bus stops. The work undertaken in this phase will involve repairing or relocating any damaged or deteriorating manholes and drainage gullies.
Phase two, which involves resurfacing the road, is anticipated to start on Monday 12 March and take three weeks to complete. This will require the full overnight closure of Bassett Avenue between 20:00 and 06:00.
In addition to resurfacing the road, overgrown vegetation is being cleared from the shared footway and cycleway. Pedestrian and cyclist access will be maintained via the shared use pavement but cyclists will be asked to dismount where a temporary footway is provided around work on the pavement.
Alternative routes for inbound (southbound) traffic from the M3
Balfour Beatty, who are undertaking the work on behalf of the city council, are advising drivers approaching from the M3 motorway to use alternative routes into the city via the M27 junctions 3 and 5. Inbound (southbound) traffic reaching Chilworth Roundabout will be diverted via Bassett Green Road and should expect delays at peak times. Please see the map online here.
Bus services
For information about affected routes please check with your bus operator.
Further information
For more information and answers to FAQs go to the city council website. For live travel updates, follow them on Twitter.
Should we be advised of any changes to the programme of works, we will let you know as soon as possible.