Lyndhurst set for more road works after worst traffic in 20 years

Drivers in Lyndhurst have experienced weeks of tailbacks, delays and stop-start queues due to road works to try and fix a set of traffic lights on the High Street.

It was due to be fixed when Hampshire Highways began replacing the former ‘old and badly timed set of lights’ in September.

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Cllr Hilary Brand, who represents Lyndhurst at New Forest District Council, has been fighting to help get the traffic light issues solved as quickly as possible.

Residents labelled the delays the worst traffic they have experienced in more than 20 years of living there.

Originally, these works were set to last until October but have now been extended until November 15.

To make matters even worse, a new set of works will be cropping up on High Street in the first week of November.

Openreach will be undertaking utility asset works on High Street less than half a mile away from the Hampshire Highways traffic light works.

These new works will be in place from Monday, November 4, until Wednesday, November 6, where another set of temporary lights will be put in place.

The Lyndhurst councillor said businesses have noticed a "huge cut in their takings" since the traffic issues first began.

Cllr Brand added that the fact the road works had spilled into November was ‘very disappointing’ for residents and business owners.

New Forest councillor David Harrison said: “Many people would have experienced the same difficulties negotiating the traffic congestion through Lyndhurst in recent weeks.

“First there were the problems with traffic light sequencing which must have had Cllr Hilary Brand tearing her hair out, trying to resolve.

“Now the High Street is full of road works, with long tail backs. The area is best avoided if you can.

“The only saving grace is that you do get the chance to see some wonderful architectural features that the town has to offer.”