WORK is due to start today on a busy and congested Poole road – but some residents would like more.

Ashley Road, Parkstone, is to have £1million spent on it on a phased series of works aimed at getting the traffic moving and improving air quality.

Jeff Williams, of Jubilee Road Residents Association welcomed the improvements but said: “One million pounds is half of what we need.”

The first piece of work will be around the junction with Mansfield Road and will provide new kerb lines, improved cycling facilities, new traffic signals and the removal of the banned left turn into Ashley Road.

Work is also getting under way on Poole Road, with £450,000 of works including an additional bus lane, new bus stop, toucan crossing and upgraded traffic signals.

“I am delighted that these two important schemes are now starting to be delivered and will be of benefit to everyone, whether you walk, cycle, take the car or the bus,” said Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation.

Poole’s slice of the £12.1million Three Towns Travel pot is £3.63m or 30 per cent – with 50 per cent going to Bournemouth and 20 per cent to Christchurch.

With two major schemes soon to get under way, Borough of Poole has already completed some of its improvements.

Worn out traffic lights have been replaced and more efficient pedestrian crossings installed at the Civic Centre and County Gates roundabouts.

There have been improved bus and pedestrian crossings at Seaview, new crossings at the Shah of Persia junction and improvements for motorists, cyclists, bus users and blue badge holders at Poole Railway Station.

And 10 new traffic cameras will be placed in key locations to help monitor and reduce congestion, as well as being used for crime prevention and detection, says the council.