Major safety improvement work will begin at the 4-way Maumbury Cross junction in Dorchester on Monday 13 January.
This includes installation of much-needed signal-controlled pedestrian crossing points, widening and levelling of footways where possible and upgrading existing equipment.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services at Dorset Council said:
“The current junction layout, with its narrow footways, limited space to pass or wait to cross and only one controlled crossing point can make it a daunting experience, especially for anyone with limited mobility or vision impairments.
“Full views of approaching vehicles can be difficult and the current layout means some people have to wait in the middle of the road to cross.
“The junction can also be particularly challenging during rush hours when commuting to and from work or school by foot, bike, or car.”
There will be traffic management in place during construction, so drivers are advised to allow for extra time at the junction, particularly during peak hours. Pedestrian access will be maintained with a safe route signposted.
Cllr Andrews continued: “The traffic management is there to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians and our highways crews. Please expect some delays and plan accordingly.
“It is a complex scheme to build, with 4-way traffic movement and thousands of vehicles passing through daily, so I hope everyone can be patient and understanding.”
The improvements
There will be a new layout and an upgrade of the existing signalling equipment. Work will also include:
- New controlled pedestrian crossing points on Maumbury Road eastern arm, Maumbury Road western arm and on Weymouth Avenue northern arm.
- Widening and levelling of footways, where possible, to improve the pedestrian environment.
- A new section of cycleway and an advanced stop line on the uphill section of Maumbury Road to help cyclists through the junction.
- Relocating the existing crossing point on the railway bridge and replacing with a new Puffin crossing closer to Queens Avenue. This will provide more footway space for people waiting to cross the road and will be closer to the main route where students walk to and from school.
Watch a video of Geoff using the crossing and hear about the difficulties it presents.
Construction phases
Monday 13 January to Friday 7 February
- Off-peak three-way stop/go signals will be in place on Weymouth Avenue/Queens Avenue daily from 9.30am to 2.30pm.
February to May
- Maumbury Cross controlled with four-way temporary lights
- Edward Road closed between Coburg Road and Weymouth Avenue, with a signed diversion in place.
More information about the scheme can be found online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/maumbury-cross
