MAJOR improvement work on a busy main road in Poole is being suspended in the run up to Christmas.

Borough of Poole has announced it is stopping works to improve pedestrian, cycling and traffic along Ashley Road from the end of November to help local shoppers and businesses.

Work began in the central area of the long road, between Jubilee Road and Albert Road, in September. However, it will now stop for five weeks, resuming in the new year.

All temporary restrictions will be removed to enable the free flow of traffic. The bus stop outside the Co-op will also be temporarily reinstated to provide passengers with easy access to the shops.

Cllr Ian Potter, cabinet portfolio for transportation, Borough of Poole, said: “Ashley Road provides a diverse and interesting range of shops and we hope that by halting these works now it will encourage shoppers to visit the area and see what’s on offer.”

Parkstone ward member and chairman of the transportation advisory group, Cllr Ann Stribley, said: “Residents, shoppers and businesses have been very patient and tolerant over recent weeks and do deserve some respite in the lead up to Christmas.”

Cllr Marion Le Poidevin, ward member for Branksome West, said: “With the temporary bus stop moving back to its regular site outside the Co-op and the new stop and parking places opposite, it will be easier to get to the heart of the shopping area so I would encourage residents to come and explore the range of goods available.”

The works will start again in January and are due to be completed by the end of March 2015.