Plans have been unveiled for a road upgrade on the M3 and the A34 in Hampshire.

The scheme involves redesigning Junction 9 of the M3, where it meets the A34 near Winchester, to create new dedicated free flow lanes, as well as revamping the junction roundabout into a new 'dumbbell' layout to increase capacity, improve safety and make journey times more reliable.

The proposals include;

• introducing free-flow slip roads, both northbound and southbound between the M3 and A34, so traffic intending to use the interchange will not need to enter the roundabout at the junction

• reconfiguring the roundabout to a new ‘dumbbell’ road layout increasing capacity and reducing congestion

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• upgrading the cycle routes to complete the gap in route 23 of the National Cycle Network

• upgrades to footpaths and improved bridleway access for horse riders

The plans have been published today, 09 January in a public consultation lasting until 19 February.

Highways England project manager Simon Hewett said: "Junction 9 is a vital interchange between the M3 and A34. With more than 6,000 vehicles using the junction each hour during peak times, it can often become congested, with queues backing up onto the main carriageway.

"The proposals we are publishing today will resolve that by separating out local and long distance traffic. With the new dedicated link roads, through traffic will not have to stop at the roundabout, freeing it up for local traffic and commuters.

"We are improving access for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians too. I urge anyone interested to send us their feedback and to come along to one of our exhibitions."

To view the consultation page, visit here.

(LM)