HAMPSHIRE parish chiefs are considering action over plans to direct traffic through villages near Winchester for the BoomTown festival.

Owslebury parish councillors said they are “extremely concerned” about BoomTown organisers’ plans to direct traffic from the M3 through Twyford, Morestead Road and past Owslebury, with the aim of easing congestion along the A31 from junction 9.

They are considering taking up the issue with Winchester City Council and may even consider claiming compensation amid fears 70-plus coaches and 750 camper vans will cause serious problems.

Councillor Paul Phillips said: “We’ve read all the details but it’s quite obvious they haven’t done their job. There’s two black spots along that route that are being used by traffic movement and it’s plain stupidity.

“They have no idea what they’re doing and the more I read the hotter I get. What about compensation? It seems a bit dramatic but it’s relevant. We are extremely concerned about this issue.”

Further issues were raised regarding the clarity of the plans, with some councillors stating the lack of communication had only caused more confusion.

Councillor Will Martin said: “Nobody has talked to people on the ground. They are just trying to spread the grief around.”

Cllr Roger Page said: “I think it’s quite dangerous and I would suggest they do a run with a coach to assess the feasibility of what they are trying to do before the actual date of Boomtown.”

Councillors decided to have a direct meeting with their counterparts in Twyford, BoomTown and their traffic management team, CMT.

This year's BoomTown festival takes place at Matterley Bowl from August 7-10. Reggae fusion singer Shaggy is the headline act.