M3 traffic: Major infrastructure improvements granted for junction 9 in Hampshire - when it starts

National Highways reports a development consent order (DCO) to revamp junction 9 of the M3 has been granted by transport minister Mark Harper. The project reached the recommendation stage in March.

“We will continue to work closely with local communities to keep them informed and minimise disruption as we move into the construction phase,” National Highways said on its website. “We will provide further updates on the progress of our plans and start of works in due course.”

As reported in the government-owned company’s scheme overview, National Highways said there aim is to stop “significant delays” and reduce “heavy” traffic levels between the M3 and A34. They said more than 6,000 vehicles pass through junction 9 every hour during peak periods, with queues being common on the northbound off-slip of the M3, the A272 Spitfire Link and Easton Lane.

National Highways said the project will improve safety at the junction, reduce congestion, increase road capacity, reduce the number of people affected by noise pollution and other qualities.

A new connection has been proposed between the A33 and M3 northbound, and the scheme outlines free flow links between the A34 and M3 in both directions. There will also be new walking, cycling and horse riding routes, an extended southbound slip onto the M3, a new subway next to the National Highways depot and other benefits.

The timeline on the National Highways website predicts works to begin at the beginning of 2025, which the improvements predicted to be finished in late 2027. Further details can be found on the National Highways website.