Contact: Brian Marsden, ext 6346

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That approval be given for the scheme to be designed in partnership with developers and that detailed estimates be prepared in readiness for a `Major Schemes' funding bid to the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions in 2002.

2. Reason

2.1 Implementation of the Chickenhall Lane Link Road will fulfil an integral part of the County Council's Structure Plan and the Borough of Eastleigh's Local Plan (1991-2001). Supported by developer contributions the link road will provide:

(i) access to existing commercial land avoiding the A335 through Eastleigh town centre;

(ii) access to proposed commercial development land to the south of the existing rail yards giving further employment opportunities within Eastleigh;

(iii) a link between junction 5 of the M27 and the B3037 Bishopstoke Road which would serve as an alternative transport link to Bishopstoke and beyond, and for any further development to the south-east of Eastleigh; and

(iv) opportunities to provide bus priority measures on the B3037.

2.2. A report to the Southampton Area Transport Strategy Members' Panel on 21 November 2001 recommended approval to the scheme (copy attached as an appendix).

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected - Not applicable

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or a Member or Officer consulted - Not applicable

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - Not applicable

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - Not applicable

Approved by: Date:

Councillor K B Estlin

6862/BM