DORCHESTER ARMS JUNCTION, HOOK - JUNCTION IMPROVEMENT

1. The A30 provides access to the east to the village of Hook, to the west Basingstoke and also provides access to Junction 5 of the M3 via the A287 leading from the A30 Dorchester Arms junction. The junction has been a cause for concern for some time and is perceived as a difficult junction by local residents and other users.

2. Following the detrunking of this route in the early 1970s, the accident record was unacceptably high and a number of safety measures have been implemented over the years which has progressively improved the route. However, as the volume of commuters has grown, resulting in parts of the M3 becoming congested especially at peak times, the number of drivers using the A30 as a means of avoiding congestion elsewhere has become significant. Unacceptable delays are experienced and result in the use of unsuitable side roads in order to reach the A30 at another point of entry. For traffic exiting the A287, there is also a particular problem for vehicles wishing to turn right especially at peak times. Although previous measures were successful overall, there remains concerns about safety at this junction.

3. As a result, a scheme was added to the capital programme in 1999/2000 to examine how this matter should be taken forward. A number of options were reviewed and were taken to full consultation. The preferred option was the introduction of traffic signals as part of a comprehensive route management solution and the decision to adopt this option as the preferred scheme was made in September 2001.

4. The 2001/02 capital programme included provision for two pelican crossings in Hook (A30, London Road and B3349 Griffin Way South). In the interests of efficiency, a decision was made in November 2001 to package these works together with the A30 Dorchester Arms junction traffic signals scheme, thus providing benefits in terms of reduced tendering costs, more efficient contract management and site supervision. The combined schemes should provide a very significant improvement to road safety in the area.

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