Work's set to start from August 15 for around five weeks on the ‘Wessex Lane Scheme’ - a “major project” that aims to “improve road safety and enhance links for people walking and cycling” in this area of Swaythling. 
Photo: Google maps

The scheme is a joint project between Southampton City Council and the University of Southampton.

It will bring traffic calming measures including reducing the speed limit to 20mph and adding two speed humps near Connaught and Montefiore halls of residence.

Alongside the traffic calming measures, it will apparently also provide enhanced links for walking, with pedestrian improvements including a raised crossing point opposite Montefiore Halls.

“To safely and efficiently construct these, this section of Wessex Lane will be closed for 12 days”, says the city council.

There will also be a new crossing across the entrance of Swaythling Railway Station, creating “a convenient and safe crossing point for pedestrians accessing the station and bus stop”.

Connaught halls on Wessex Lane. Photo: Google maps

The bus stop close to the Fleming Arms pub will be relocated closer to the railway station, to improve connectivity between bus and rail. The council says this will benefit all users including physically and visually impaired pedestrians as they will be able to clearly see a safe crossing to and from the bus stop.

The long-term ambition of the scheme is a Travel Hub where e-scooters, pedal bikes and e-bikes are available for hire, located near the entrance to Montefiore Halls. The Hub will benefit both students and residents making it easier for them to travel sustainably to and from Wessex Lane and the City Centre.

The works follow a consultation with the local community and will be delivered by the council’s highways partners, Balfour Beatty Living Places. It is being funded by central government via the Transforming Cities Fund, with additional funding from the University of Southampton.