The next phase of a scheme to transform St Mary’s Roundabout into a traffic light controlled junction is underway.
A contraflow system has been put in place overnight as contractors move onto the next stage of the major project, which began back in October. It is thought that it is the first time a contraflow system has been used on the Island.
Traffic heading into Newport from Cowes is now being directed onto the wrong side of the road outside St Mary’s Hospital. The carriageway goes down to just 1 lane before opening up to 3 lanes again on the approach to the roundabout. Traffic heading towards Cowes is also brought down to just 1 lane.
The contraflow is expected to remain in place until late March or early April before switching over to the other side of the road, sending northbound traffic onto the southbound carriageway.
A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council has said:
“Signage will be in place to clearly direct vehicles, including those exiting from the hospital site on to Medina Way, which will exit via a feeder lane in a similar way to the current arrangements.
“The council is reminding road users the work will cause disruption during some phases, particularly until motorists become accustomed to temporary traffic arrangements during construction.
“There are a variety of factors including inclement weather, emergency works and scheme extensions that can affect the timing of works.
Article continues below this advertisement “Due to the size and nature of this scheme, the works programme is subject to change, but programme updates will continue to be issued as each phase progresses.”
Bring on the drama kings and queens
Could there please be clarification and more signage regarding speed limits? Many drivers not aware or are disregarding reduction of speed limit on dual carriageway.
Keep it simple for the simple over here.
Talking about yourself