National Highways will start the first stage of a £23 million investment improving the A36 through the city of Salisbury early next year.
The investment over the next six years will start with a scheme to improve traffic flows around the St Paul’s, St Mark’s and Castle roundabouts.
The current, 32-year-old signals have reached the end of their operational life and will be replaced with modern, energy-efficient systems which will adapt in real time to waiting vehicles rather than following a fixed timer.
The project, starting on 19 January, will see the new adaptive traffic signals installed at the Castle and St Mark’s roundabouts, with a similar scheme planned for the St Paul’s roundabout in early summer.
Further road improvements along the strategic route in the coming years will include:
• Resurfacing at the Castle and St Paul’s roundabouts and Wilton road;
• Improved road markings and pavement renewal;
• Upgrade of the Southampton Road pedestrian crossing;
• Strengthening work to the Maltings access bridge;
• Repairs to the Avon River bridge;
• Replacement of the Victoria Road footbridge to improve accessibility;
• Removal of the Wyndham Road footbridge, while all alternative options are explored.
The most impactful work has been planned to avoid Salisbury’s 2027 celebrations to mark its 800th Royal Charter year.
National Highways Route Manager Chris Hilldrup said:
“The A36 is the main arterial route through Salisbury – carrying an average of 33,500 vehicles a day between the College and St Mark’s roundabouts – and helps connect the south coast with Bristol, Bath and London.
“Given insurmountable limitations on constructing a bypass for the city, it’s vital that we continue to maintain and improve the route, both for the economy, the travelling public and local communities.
“As part of this investment we’re carrying out a number of schemes which will reduce congestion, improve safety, create more reliable journey times and ultimately support Salisbury’s long-term economic growth.”
(Picture: National Highways)
