Southampton City Council will be starting work on a major project this summer in a bid to improve road safety and enhance links for people walking and cycling in this area of Swaythling.
The Wessex Lane scheme is a joint partnership between the council and the University of Southampton and is being funded by central government via Transforming Cities Fund with additional funding from the UoS.
The scheme鈥檚 traffic calming measures include reducing the speed limit to 20mph, the addition of two speed humps near Connaught and Montefiore Halls of Residence and a raised crossing point opposite Montefiore Halls. To safely and efficiently construct these, this section of Wessex Lane will be closed for 12 days.
A new crossing point will also be installed at the entrance of Swaythling Railway Station, and the bus stop near to the Fleming Arms pub will be relocated closer to the station, providing improved safety and connectivity for bus & rail users.
The long-term ambition of the scheme is a Travel Hub where e-scooters, pedal bikes and e-bikes are available for hire, this will be located at near the entrance to Montefiore Halls. The Hub will benefit both students and residents making it easier for them to travel sustainably to and from Wessex Lane and the City Centre.
The works follow a consultation with the local community and will be delivered by the council鈥檚 Highways Partners, Balfour Beatty Living Places, over approximately 5 weeks and start on Monday 15th August.
Adam Tewkesbury, Associate Director of Environment & Sustainability at UoS said:
鈥淲e 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鈥檚 contribution towards the scheme reflects our commitment to supporting sustainable transport options in the city, working in partnership with the city council.鈥�
Councillor Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Transport and District Regeneration comments:
鈥淚 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.鈥�
For further information about the launch, please email the Estate Development team at estatedevelopment@soton.ac.uk.
