Changes planned for Harnham Gyratory and Exeter Street roundabout

An extra lane and wider cycle path are among Wiltshire Council's ideas

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 6th Sep 2023

A set of changes are planned for two notoriously busy Salisbury junctions, with the aim of increasing traffic capacity, reducing journey times and boosting sustainable transport.

Wiltshire Council wants to add a new southbound lane for the Harnham Gyratory, as well as altering the lane layout for the Exeter Street roundabout.

They also plan to move and widen the pedestrian and cycle path along New Bridge Road to the Harnham Gyratory.

It would go further into the green space, without affecting trees there, with the bus stop also being relocated.

A new pedestrian and cyclist crossing point will also be installed on Britford Lane, along with two new toucan crossings for the Harnham junction and upgrades to existing footpaths and crossings.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“This scheme aims to improve traffic flows on Harnham Gyratory to reduce congestion, while also making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists to travel along this well-used route into the city centre.

“We’re planning to create an additional lane at Harnham Gyratory to increase capacity and also widen and extend the shared use cycling and walking path to enable more people to walk and cycle into the city with confidence.

“The next step for the scheme is for us to work on detailed designs, which we aim to complete in early 2024 and as the plan progresses, we’ll present regular updates at Salisbury Area Board meetings.”

There's also an update on any potential for Southampton Road. Cllr Thomas said:

“We are working closely with National Highways, which manages the A36 and is working on its own projects to reduce congestion on Southampton Road, to ensure that this scheme complements National Highways’ work. We will also be engaging with local stakeholders, such as Salisbury City Council, affected residents, utility companies and walking and cycling groups to seek their views on the proposals."

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