A bid to ease congestion on a key route in the New Forest is set to progress after it was approved by a senior councillor.

The scheme involves junction improvements and road widening along the A326 in the Waterside area - between the Michigan Way junction west of Totton to the north, and the Main Road junction at Dibden to the south.

Hampshire County Council wants to improve the stretch to support the major investment at Waterside, and Hampshire County Council leader Rob Humby has now agreed to the plan.

So far £3.37m has been allocated to drawing up the scheme, with Cllr Humby's approval meaning a planning application can now be written and submitted.

Cllr Humby said: “This strategically important scheme will address existing issues experienced by those who are living and working in or visiting the Waterside area of the New Forest.

“It will also support the wider Waterside Vision – which sets an ambition for the sustainable growth of the Waterside area – as well as expanding on a £50 million investment in schemes to improve transportation and travel that we’ve delivered and are delivering already in this part of the county.

The Waterside Vision was developed by a public-private consortium supported by Hampshire County Council, New Forest District Council and major landowners.

It aims to create up to 6,700 new jobs and attract over £3 billion of private sector investment in the area and, at the same time enhance the environment.

Cllr Humby added: “This includes improvements to the south section of the A326 and bus priority improvements at Rushington Roundabout and on the Marchwood Bypass.”

“The Waterside is home to infrastructure and industrial assets such as Fawley Oil Refinery.

“This plays a critical role in the national economy and this scheme will support the unlocking of the area’s potential for sustainable growth.”

The council will apply for planning approval and submit an outline business case to the Department for Transport for funding in the Autumn of 2024.

At the decision meeting, Cllr Humby also reviewed the outcome of a public consultation on an initial scheme design, held during summer 2023.

Cllr Humby said: “I understand the concerns of some residents about protecting our environment and road building, but I am confident that construction will be done sensitively with due care for the surrounding habitats.”