Plan to reopen Totton junction sparks huge petition

The petition was launched by Hampshire county councillor David Harrison, who says it is "hard to imagine" the authority forging ahead with such an unpopular scheme.

The county council wants to create a new bus-only route by removing the pavement that separates Commercial Road from the northern end of Junction Road.

As reported in the Daily Echo, critics have warned that the controversial project could cause a major safety issue.

They say northbound buses approaching from Rumbridge Street will often have to stop at the spot where Junction Road meets Maynard Road, causing long queues and possibly leaving vehicles trapped on a level crossing.

More than 1,350 people have signed a petition opposing plans to reopen the northern end of Junction Road, Totton. (Image: Supplied)

Cllr Harrison, who represents Totton South and Marchwood, has warned that the scheme could cost £1.7m.

Issuing an update, he thanked the 1,350 people who signed the petition. He added that members of Totton and Eling Town Council also felt the proposal should be dropped.

Cllr Harrison added: "It is now a case of waiting to see what he decision is.

"Personally, I think it is hard to imagine Hampshire County Council will try to impose this upon us knowing how unpopular it is."

READ MORE: Plan to reopen Totton town centre junction put on hold after protests about the scheme

A county council spokesperson told the Daily Echo: "Our officers are continuing to explore options which deliver benefits for local bus services whilst recognising the concerns raised by the local community regarding the proposed scheme at Junction Road.

"Further work is being undertaken, and a final decision on the way forward is likely this autumn."

Cllr David Harrison says members of Totton and Eling Town Council are opposed to plans to reopen the junction (Image: Newsquest)

A statement on the county council's website adds: "The aim of this scheme is to provide a bus only link between Junction Road and A326 Commercial Road in Totton to reduce journey times.

"The scheme will also improve existing bus stops on Commercial Road to enhance facilities for waiting passengers and provide an improved crossing on Commercial Road for people cycling or walking.

"A key aim of this scheme is to encourage people to leave the car at home and either walk, cycle or use public transport as a first choice of travel."

READ MORE: Campaigners fear bus improvement scheme could leave cars trapped on level crossing

But people have taken to social media to condemn the proposal, with many describing it as a "crazy" waste of money.

One person posted: "This is all about the ridiculous fantasy that making a bus go a bit quicker will magically increase the number of people giving up their cars.

"All this scheme will do is worsen air pollution and congestion."