PREPARATION work has begun ahead of the four-month closure of one of Poole's main routes next month as the council tweaks its plans in a bid to ease congestion.

Gravel Hill is set to close on Sunday July 24 for major works between Queen Anne Drive to Dunyeats Road, including strengthening the embankment, widening the footway and improving the Gravel Hill and Queen Anne Drive junction.

But Arrowsmith Road - initially set to be closed throughout - will now remain open to provide an alternative route specifically for local drivers - particularly as the road will not be signed as a diversion. The existing 7.5 tonne weight limit restriction will remain in force.

To ensure that Magna Road, a key part of the diversion route, does not become blocked by vehicles waiting to turn right into Arrowsmith Road, temporary traffic signals are set to be installed at this junction.

Cllr Jane Newell, ward member for Merley and Bearwood, welcomed the initiative adding that the junction "has been a concern for some time, particularly poor sight lines on exiting Arrowsmith Road."

She said: "The introduction of traffic lights will improve conditions for users and assist with traffic conditions particularly during the period of road improvements to Gravel Hill."

Fellow ward councillor Cllr David Brown said: “The closure of Gravel Hill for essential improvements will inevitably cause inconvenience for local people, so it is good news that Arrowsmith Road will be kept open to local traffic to help residents going about their day-to-day activities."

Preparation work now underway includes the installation of traffic signals at the junction of Magna Road and Arrowsmith Road, realigning the length of kerb line and marginally widening Magna Road to create a right-turn lane and installing signs and lines.

The council has confirmed the temporary measures could be retained after the Gravel Hill works complete if they are considered of benefit to the local community.

Access to Gravel Hill for residents, cyclists and pedestrians will maintained throughout the four month closure.

The planned improvements are part of a wider programme of investment in the route between the A31 to the Port of Poole to improve access into and around the port.

The works are part of Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership’s £23.3 million major investment in Poole’s infrastructure which was secured as part of the Dorset Growth Deal.