Hampshire County Council has revealed residents have reacted positively to designs for potential improvements for the Cart and Horses junction on the A33 and B3047 near Winchester.
However the council making clear that progressing an improvement scheme in the village of Kings Worthy is reliant on a decision by central Government.
In response to concerns about safety at the junction arising from the expected impact of National Highways’ proposed Junction 9 improvement scheme, the County Council presented evidence to a planning inspector that National Highways should make and pay for the improvements to the Cart and Horses junction.
To support the case being made, two options for improvement were developed by the County Council and the views of those living locally – and others who regularly travel via the route – were sought through an online survey and public information sessions (July to September 2023). Over 880 responses were received with feedback showing strong support for both design options.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Rob Humby, said: “We’re grateful to all those who took the time to provide their views on the options. Their responses, together with the initial designs, are very helpful in informing our discussions with National Highways.
“I have read the consultation feedback and it is clear people currently find the junction uncomfortable to use. However, we are unable to press ahead with improvements to the Cart and Horses junction without funding. We must wait for the Secretary of State for Transport’s decision about National Highways’ M3 Junction 9 improvement scheme, which is expected in May. It is possible that the Minister may agree the National Highways scheme but disagree there is a case for improvements to the Cart and Horses junction. This would mean there would be no funding to deliver a scheme. If that is the outcome, we would have no choice but to wait for another funding opportunity.”
A report setting out the County Council’s position relating to the Cart and Horses Junction, together with analysis of the public consultation responses has been published on the Cart and Horses Junction webpage on hants.gov.uk.
(Picture – Hants CC)
