Section of Winchester footpath closed for up to three months

Part of Compton and Shawford Footpath 12, by Badger Farm Road, could be closed until May 16 due to public safety reasons.

A longer diversion is in place. The closure will remain in place for three months or until the work is completed, whichever comes sooner.

READ MORE: Itchen Navigation path to close for five weeks during tree works

The closure area (Image: Hampshire County Council)

A spokesperson for Hampshire County Council said: “A section of the right of way Footpath 12 runs through an area where the contractor’s temporary compound for the construction of National Highways’ smart motorways scheme is located - at the corner of the Otterbourne and Badger Farm roads.

“Therefore, that section of the footpath was closed off, for public safety reasons, under a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order.  It will remain closed until the area of land is no longer required for the purpose of enabling construction of major local infrastructure. However, a temporary alternative walking route is in place for the duration of the closure.”

Plans for the smart motorway between Eastleigh and Winchester were cancelled last year because of the growing lack of public confidence.