Movement on Highways

Christchurch Council is getting used to punching above it's weight and on the issue of traffic Dorset County have responded to my letters and resulting publicity so very shortly an high level meeting is scheduled with them when the subject can be explored and priorities decided. Key to this exercise will be how we can improve the Christchurch High Street experience and the whole issue of the Fountain roundabout/ Waitrose dumb bell. Schemes for sustainable transport links from Poole/ Bournemouth/ Christchurch are high priority but so is making sure that Christchurch PLC has adequate transport systems to support new businesses and residents are not subject to the gridlocks suffered this summer. We are taking soundings of how the traffic is behaving whilst the Bridge Street works continue and will be keen to see how the bus companies have 'fared' on the diversion routes they have had to take. The subject is further complicated with and by developments at Sommerford Road and our determination to get Christchurch town centre buzzing again. Notice has been taken of how successful the lights at the Stour Road junction both in terms of traffic flow and safety and of course the importance of maintaining the vitality of the Fairmile end of the High Street. So lots to think about and loads of challenges.