A project to upgrade National Highways’ M3 junction 9 (M3 J9) in South Hampshire, England, has received approval from ministers.
The project aims to alleviate bottlenecks, with peak journeys through the junction to the A272 road into Winchester estimated to become nearly 30% quicker.
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Drivers will save more than 20% of their overall journey time during peak hours between the M3 and A34.
The new design will also enhance safety by extending the southbound slip road onto the M3, allowing traffic more time to join the motorway.
The UK government is providing £290m ($375m) for the scheme, which is estimated to generate millions of pounds for the local economy. This initiative is part of the government’s wider Plan for Change to renew infrastructure and stimulate economic growth.
The scheme will increase the number of lanes on the M3 from three to four through the junction, as it passes under a wider gyratory.
This will facilitate free-flowing links between the M3 and the A34 in both directions.
Additionally, new and safer routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders will be constructed, linking Kings Worthy and Winnall, as well as Long Walk and Easton Lane.
Environmental benefits are also part of the plan, with National Highways incorporating 22.2 acres of ancient chalk grassland, a species-rich habitat that is considered Europe’s equivalent of tropical rainforest.
The M3 J9 scheme is seen as crucial for the construction of 2,000 new homes in Winchester, another step in the government’s Plan for Change to deliver 1.5 million homes over the next five years.
The junction links the key ports of Southampton and Portsmouth, which ship millions of tonnes of freight annually.
UK Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said: “Anyone who uses this junction knows how frustrating it can be. But our £290m investment will save thousands of hours for commuters, tourists and freight every week, unlocking the true potential of our ports to deliver economic growth.”
