One of the main roads through the centre of Swanage will now be closed for roadworks a week later than previously announced. Instead of closing on the 10th February, Institute Road will now be shut to all traffic from Monday 17th February until the end of May.
This follows today’s approval of traffic regulation orders to allow the work to go ahead to improve pedestrian safety in Institute Road by removing the loading bay and widening the pavements to two and a half metres.
Councillor Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“A serious collision in 2015 focused our attention to the situation in Swanage – where there is a significant conflict between vehicles and pedestrians through the main shopping street.
“When the existing loading bay is in use – either legally or illegally – vehicles will often mount the pavement to get past, sometimes with little regard for pedestrians.
“By re-positioning the loading bay we can widen the pavements which will improve pedestrian safety and greatly enhance the visitor experience along this busy stretch.”
The work, that is expected to last up to 16 weeks, also includes installing new drainage systems and rebuilding the pavements and kerbs up to a higher level.
The one-way flow on Kings Road East will be reversed to ensure drivers can still get into the heart of the town, and the High Street will become two-way with the help of temporary signals. Institute Road will remain open to pedestrians throughout the works.
It will cost around £450,000 and is being funded by Dorset Council, Swanage Town Council and Section 106 money from developers.
