Emergency services will be able to make a speedy arrival to the home of Hampshire cricket after plans for a new access road were given the go ahead.

Eastleigh Council granted planning permission for an alternative emergency access route to and from the Rose Bowl in West End.

This will now guarantee that even at critical times when large numbers of people are leaving the site, emergency services will be able to reach the site quickly and safely.

The new access point is strictly for emergency vehicles only on major event days and links directly to the M27. The current access via Marshall Way is shared by local sports clubs and subject to closure for large events.

Councillor Keith House said: "We are pleased to work in partnership with the Rose Bowl to help them meet their emergency access needs and help to improve the spectators' experience when visiting the Rose Bowl."