Calls for a new bypass reignited over Kempshott Lane works

As previously reported, Kempshott Lane, which has been subjected to various roadworks for months, will face 105 weeks of maintenance work, this time on its sewers, from Monday, February 2.

Hampshire County Councillor for Basingstoke South West, Stephen Reid, said he was "horrified" at the sheer number of roadworks that have been carried out on the stretch of road, saying: "It seems that, no sooner does one finish, than the next one begins."

He explained that the road cannot cope with the amount of traffic and issues caused by tailbacks, and once again called for more infrastructure in the west of Basingstoke.

Cllr Reid is calling for a western bypass to be created in Basingstoke (Image: Cllr Stephen Reid)

He said: "All this reinforces my view that Basingstoke needs a western bypass.

"Kempshott Lane forms part of an important north/south route, and every time it is disrupted, it causes problems for a wide area. With all the developments being planned, driven by the government’s increased housing targets, we need the extra capacity that a western bypass would provide.

"That will require another crossing of the railway line, and in the current local plan, I was instrumental in getting space reserved for this.

"I have made the point that Kempshott Lane cannot go on for two more years without something being done to improve it, and have invited the Executive Member to come and see the problem with me."

Kempshott Lane isn't alone this time around; Winchester Road is also to be affected by the roadworks with a new sewer being installed along Winchester Road, while two sections on Kempshott Lane are getting upsized.

Barhale, the company carrying out the works on behalf of Thames Water, told residents that these improvements will "strengthen the network and help reduce the risk of flooding in the future."