PLANS to reduce congestion between two Hampshire communities have inched a step closer after they were given the nod by a council transport supremo.

A package of proposals has been outlined to minimise delays for drivers on the A27 between Fareham and Segensworth and improve bus links in the area.

The plans include a bus gate to allow buses to bypass the Quay Street roundabout and access the A27 westbound.

It would also see a new off-carriageway bus lane to replace the current on-road bus lane – allowing Western Way to revert to two lanes of general traffic.

The strategy also includes improvements to the A27 roundabout and junction with Gudge Heath Lane to remove bottlenecks and keep traffic moving.

As an interim measure, it has been agreed that the on-carriageway bus lanes currently under trial will remain until the off-carriageway bus lanes are provided.

Meanwhile the bus lane will be reduced by 36 metres to enable two lanes of traffic on the western approach to Station Roundabout and this will also mean removing the Avenue section.

Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Environment, Seàn Woodward, said: “The A27 provides a local alternative to the M27 and is a critical east to west transport artery.

Improvements are essential, not only to improve existing traffic flow but also to enable regeneration and economic growth.”