MOTORISTS and traders have received some unexpected good news with the announcement that the A338 roadworks will finish three weeks ahead of schedule.

Following criticism from hard-hit Bournemouth traders and tourism chiefs, Dorset County Council has agreed to revise the timetable of works to provide the town with a trouble-free Christmas shopping period.

The major scheme centred around the Blackwater Junction started in September and was originally due to run until December 5.

But Dave Gibb, Dorset County Council's head of highways client services, confirmed the council was now aiming to get both Spur Road carriageways, the southbound sliproads and the sliproad onto the northbound Spur Road open by November 15.

Work on Hurn Road and the northbound "off" sliproad will still continue until December but the change has thrilled town centre businesses.

Debenhams manager Stephen Mewha, speaking on behalf of Bournemouth traders, said: "We're absolutely delighted. We feel that we've been able to achieve this by working in partnership with the council. It's fantastic news both for the traders and the residents of Bournemouth."

Mr Gibb said: "We understand the strength of local feeling surrounding such a major scheme as our roadworks on the A338 and Hurn Road but the work was essential.

"In fact, as we've said from the beginning, scheduling all the elements of the work together has meant that the whole scheme will be finished in 14 weeks."

Cllr Angela Manton, Bournemouth council's cabinet member for the economy, said: "We know that our colleagues at Dorset have worked really hard to get round what is a more complex situation than it might seem.

"I'd like to thank them for that hard work and especially for taking on board the concerns of our traders. We're all hopeful now that word will get out that Bournemouth is open for some festive Christmas shopping."

First published: Oct 13