MAJOR work is due to start next year at two roundabouts in Basingstoke to improve congestion and minimise flooding.

Hampshire County Council has agreed a £10.6 million package of improvements for the A33 Crockford and Binfields Roundabouts in Popley and Chineham respectively.

The work is set to improve congestion, journey reliability and safety as well as minimise the risk of future localised flooding.

Just last week the roundabouts were flooded following heavy rain and storms overnight on Thursday, causing delays and problems for motorists.

Councillor Rob Humby, executive member for transport and environment at the county council, said: “The A33 corridor is a key strategic route for Basingstoke, providing a link between the A339 Ringway and the north east of Basingstoke to the M4 and Reading.

“This £10.6 million package of improvements will reduce delays and queuing at several major junctions. The scheme will also include improvement work to the drainage system and local balancing pond which will help to minimise the risk of flooding that occurs between the two roundabouts, as seen only last week.

“This route will also help ease congestion in two of the major employment areas in Basingstoke, Chineham and Hampshire International Business Parks, as well as aid any potential expansions and future job creation. In addition, the improvements will seek to unlock several key development sites along the corridor.”

Improvements at Crockford and Binfields Roundabouts include widening the existing approach roads; road widening works on the roundabout; installation of traffic signals on the roundabout; upgrading existing pedestrian and cycle facilities and connections; and drainage works.

Part of the improvement work will be a major project to address the root cause of the persistent localised flooding between the roundabouts, which stems from a balancing pond north of the A33.

Investigations have already been undertaken into the drainage in the area and the implications the extra drainage from the new road scheme would have on the balancing pond.

Steps will therefore be taken to widen and line the pond while creating a new drainage system that will address future flooding issues.

Once a contractor is appointed work is due to start on this project in early 2017.