Mounting anger over unfinished Bedhampton roundabout

The £7.1m project on the Hulbert Road roundabout, by Purbrook Way in Bedhampton, began in October, 2014. The original deadline for completion was December, 2015.

The work was intended to reduce delays and improve road safety for pedestrians.

But the repeated delays to the completion of the project have become a particular nuisance for local residents.

Suzanne Morrison 52, who lives in Purbrook Way, was upset about the roundabout.

She said: ‘We’ve had many sleepless nights because of the machinery and the traffic is horrendous all the time’.

The roundabout is undergoing major redevelopment, including a larger central feature with a new cycle track and pathway across it, with extra traffic lights and lanes. However, a common complaint among residents and motorists is that only one lane across the roundabout remains accessible, whereas before two lanes could be used.

David Eustace, 71, who lives in Hulbert Road, said the situation was ‘dangerous’.

He explained: ‘There are so many elements on the roundabout and people aren’t sure which driver has the right of way because the traffic lights haven’t been switched on.’

Mr Eustace also said that there appeared to be a lack of synchronisation between the builders.

He added: ‘From what I saw, one group put some kerbs in and Tarmaced over and then later some other guys came along and dug it up to put railings in.

‘The standard of workmanship seems very poor’.

County councillor Rob Humby, executive member for environment and transport, said there were a few aspects that needed to be completed.

He said: ‘These are being finished now and we aim to have the roundabout open early next week.

‘Once the roundabout is open, the contractor will remain on site to complete some minor remedial work but there will be minimal disruption to traffic.’