CAR parking and access issues came under the spotlight when Romsey MP Sandra Gidley visited the Chandler's Ford area to discuss plans to re-open the railway station.

Mrs Gidley visited the site with councillors Margaret Kyrle, Pam Holden-Brown and Grahame Smith to talk to local residents about the long-awaited scheme.

After the meeting she said: "I welcome the re-opening but I am concerned that there is currently no plan to access via Hursley Road.

"This is essential if the scheme is going to be a success. We should also be examining the feasibility of completing the link, via Romsey and Totton, at the very start of the planning. We need to be looking ahead and trying to anticipate problems. Alternative methods of transport will become increasingly important in years to come.

"The local residents expressed some concern about the increase in car parking in the area and provision must be made to provide and control this. The path across the railway line is very busy and it links the surgery and shops to Valley Park. It must be improved and safety measures installed."

She added: "I have confidence that my colleagues on the local area committee will be doing their utmost to develop a scheme that will benefit and enhance Chandler's Ford. I am supporting them by taking this matter up with relevant authorities."