Major improvements to redevelop the street layout in and around one of Bournemouth’s key regeneration sites is well underway.
As part of the Council’s Three Towns Travel programme Horseshoe Common is undergoing a package of street improvements to encourage greater use of the Common, as well as make it easier, safer and more attractive for those living, working and visiting this part of the town.
Improvements to Dean Park Crescent and the northern side of Old Christchurch Road are nearing completion, with Dean Park Crescent due re-open to traffic on Tuesday 22 April.
As of Tuesday 22 April works will get underway on Fir Vale Road which will be closed to through traffic for 4 weeks. During this time residents and businesses are advised to enter Fir Vale Road and Old Christchurch Lane via St Peter’s Road/Fir Vale Road.
Works will also be taking place on Old Christchurch Road between Fir Vale Road and Madeira Road, commencing at the junction of Fir Vale Road.
A section of Old Christchurch Road, between the end of the pedestrian area and Fir Vale Road, will be closed on the south side. Access for residents and businesses on Old Christchurch Road will be maintained throughout this period.
Ian Kalra, Head of Transportation Services, said: “Three Towns Travel is about preparing for tomorrow’s journeys today.
“We recognise there will be some disruption during this stage of improvements and would like to reassure residents and businesses that where possible we will keep disruption to an absolute minimum.”
The Three Towns Travel improvements at Horseshoe Common will benefit residents, businesses and visitors alike and includes:
- New walking and cycling routes using high quality blocks and paving materials
- Shared space between Horseshoe Common and Old Christchurch Road
- Replacing the roundabout on Old Christchurch Road with a non signalised junction
- Redesign of Horseshoe Common to create new public space
- New street furniture, trees and shrubs
- Removal of physical and visual barriers such as railings and unnecessary signs
- Relocation of taxi parking and bus stops
- Extension of the 20 mph zone to Old Christchurch Road, Dean Park Crescent and Madeira Road
- Implementation of a night time road closure
Councillor Michael Filer, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “It is very exciting to see the progress being made at Horseshoe Common as part of the Three Towns Travel programme.
“The improvement works will make it easier, safer and more attractive to travel in and around this area and will complement the ongoing regeneration being carried out to increase the vitality of this key town centre location.”
