The Highways Agency has agreed to work in co-operation with South Hampshire’s local traffic authorities, so that congestion is not solved on one part of the network by pushing it elsewhere.
The HA and Transport for South Hampshire have signed a memorandum of understanding to complement a multi-area agreement to overcome transport constraints to economic growth signed by communities secretary, Hazel Blears, in July (Surveyor, 17 July).
The HA will work with TfSH, governed by Southampton, Portsmouth City and Hampshire councils in order to ensure that schemes do not transfer congestion to other parts of the sub-regional road network serving them. It will include the upgrade of junction 9 of the M3 and the application of a ‘managed motorway’ scheme currently under consideration, which could involve opening up the hard shoulder of the motorways and active traffic management.
The HA and local councils have ‘agreed to keep each other updated about progress on schemes which might affect each others’ network, and engage positively in discussions about sub-regional traffic management’. This could eventually lead to the two parties establishing a joint traffic control centre in order ‘to optimise overall network operation,’ according to Keith Willcox, Transport for South Hampshire project director.
Crucially, the memorandum includes a commitment for both parties to share data that would assist with traffic management with each other.
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
