Published on Wednesday 25 March 2026
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has approved a host of improvements to roads across the conurbation, making everyday journeys safer and more reliable for residents.
Last night (24 March), Councillors voted in favour of a four-year package of capital investment in our highways.
Between April 2026 and the end of March 2027, more than £7.7 million will be spent on highways maintenance – including preventative patching, resurfacing and micro-asphalt treatment – to reduce potholes and prolong the life of roads in the area.
Residents will also see upgrades to highway structures and traffic signals, including a major revamp of the Castle Lane East/Deansleigh Road junction outside Royal Bournemouth Hospital.
Cllr Andy Hadley, BCP Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for highways maintenance and sustainable transport, said: “This package of investment is about making everyday journeys easier for all our residents, no matter how they travel across our network.
“Through targeted funding we’ll be able to upgrade key roads, improve crossings and keep the way we manage traffic flow up to date.
“These improvements will keep people moving, support local growth and ensure the roads and transport infrastructure across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole remain fit for the future.”
The BCP area will also benefit from active travel improvements after the council was recognised for its strong leadership and delivery of high-quality schemes by Active Travel England (ATE).
BCP Council’s annual funding allocation from ATE has more than doubled to £2.95 million because of its success in earning a level 3 active travel capability rating.
Only 11 local authorities have achieved a level 3 rating nationally.
The increased ATE funding will see the introduction of new crossings, improved pedestrian and cycle routes and secure cycle parking in town centres and at key destinations.
Residents will also be better connected to parks and green spaces under our Access to Urban Greenspace programme.
Cllr Hadley added: “We want as many residents as possible to have access to safe and sustainable travel options. This funding boost opens that up to more people in our communities than ever before.
“The Local Authority Bus Grant enables us to improve facilities for bus users and to continue to work with Morebus on enhancing their well-regarded services.
“Applying Lane Rentals to our most congested roads will incentivise utility companies to work more quickly, relieving congestion.
“These improvements balance the needs of everyone, not only helping pedestrians and cyclists to stay safe, particularly children and older residents, but crucially also benefit bus users and any motorists for whom walking and cycling isn’t practical by helping to reduce overall traffic volumes, improving air quality and safety.”