I am pleased to report that trees overhanging and blocking the footpath on Smannell Road near the junction of Newbury Road have now been cut back. The trees were so overgrown that residents were forced to step in the road to get past.

 Many residents have spoken to me about this and I requested action. TVBC council contractors immediately cut back the trees including some which were not their responsibility. The path is now once again clear.

 If there are any other similar obstructions on footpaths in the area please let me know.

Alamein Liberal Democrats have been surveying residents’ opinions on traffic calming in Viking Way. All homes in Edgar, Danegeld, Moot and Olaf Closes were contacted to seek their views on a 20 mph speed limit and additional signage to control traffic in the area.

Residents overwhelming backed Lib Dem calls for speed restrictions in the area. The results of the survey have been reported to Testway Housing and council highway officers for further consideration.

Similar surveys will be carried out in other parts of Alamein over the next few months. If you know of an area where 20 mph limits are needed or you would like one of our free “20 is plenty” stickers for your dustbin please let me know.

Many residents have contacted me regarding the proposed closure of Smannell Road between Icknield Way and Smannell. Concerns have been expressed about increased traffic through Smannell and Little London, traffic using unsuitable local roads as alternatives, possible accidents outside the school, damage to the roads during the diversion and delays for emergency vehicles reaching Smannell.

The road will be closed  for up to three months from 23 March while road works are carried out at East Anton. This involves widening the road and installing new roundabouts.

The decision to do so is made by the developers in consultation with the highway authorities. There is no statutory requirement for local consultation. I, Phil Duke on behalf of the parish council and Robin Hughes as county councillor have all made very strong representations to Hampshire Highways on this but the have advised us there is no alternative to the closure.

In way of mitigation the highways department have said

HCC and the police have agreed the necessary work of widening Smannell Road can only be carried out safely with the road closed
The developer has spoken to local farmers to ensure they maximise the lorry traffic they generate before the closure takes place, so they can minimise it during the closure.
The Contractor is required to provide large notices at each end of the closure a minimum of one week before the closure. Further signs will also be placed en route to discourage drivers from taking “shortcuts” along unsuitable roads.
The route will be surveyed before and after the closure and any damage to roads will be re-instated.
The emergency services and the school will be notified so that they can take appropriate actions.
Smannell and Enham Alamein parish councils will be formally notified but this is for information only.

Finally they emphasise this is a matter for the highways authority alone and there is no alternative route. I and your other councillors will, of course, monitor the closure and diversion closely and take immediate action should any problems occur.

The Contractors for the developer of the East Anton Major Development Area will soon start highway improvement works on Smannell Road. This work includes the construction of roundabouts at the junctions of Smannell Road with Cricketers Way and Roman Way. In addition a new cycleway will be provided in the area.

Following the roundabout completion the contractor will then start work to widen Smannell Road through the development site and on to Smannell. To carry these works out safely, the road will need to be closed to through traffic. Discussions are to take place shortly on a suitable diversion route. More details on dates of closure and the diversion route will follow.

If you have any queries or comments on these works please contact me.