Phase two of Southport Eastern Access scheme starts at Kew Roundabout

Phase two of work on the Southport Eastern Access scheme is to start on today, Monday 17thAugust.

It will result in major improvements around Kew Roundabout and the opening of Foul Lane to traffic. New signalised crossings will make the roundabout safer for those walking and cycling. Access to the retail park for motorists will also be improved.

Sometimes referred to as ‘a nightmare to navigate’ the roundabout will become easier to enter and use, improving traffic flow. The safety and overall appearance of this key route into Southport will also be enhanced.

The introduction of traffic lights and new crossings will make it easier and safer for anyone navigating the roundabout, by car or otherwise. The opening of Foul Lane to traffic will also mean better access to the area’s retail and leisure facilities.

The first part of the works will be along Meols Park and Foul Lane. This is called preloading and at Meols Park this will involve adding a stone base to where the future pavement will be. Due to the ground condition, the stones will be given time to settle before being surfaced later in the scheme, to even out the surface.

After the preloading works, the installation of new crossings and remaining works is anticipated to take around 9 months to complete.

Cllr Phil Hart, Cabinet Member for Housing and Highways said:

“There are schools, shopping and leisure opportunities located near to the Kew Roundabout and these improvements will make it easier for everyone who uses it.

“Young people especially will benefit from a safer way to cross the roundabout, whether by walking, wheeling or cycling.

“This area is a key route for Southport and currently has limited active travel links. The scheme aims to make safe walking and cycling routes for those who want to leave the car at home for short journeys and help more people to choose sustainable modes of travel.”

Phase 1 of Southport Eastern Accesswas completed earlier this year and saw junction improvements at Bispham Road and Sussex Road junctions. This increased the capacity of the junctions encouraging traffic to pass straight through rather than being tempted to use nearby residential streets as rat runs.

Read more on the changes to take place during the next phase of works.