WORK to improve Hurn roundabout has been delayed due to problems with land acquisition.

The project, part of the BIG Programme which has seen alterations take place at nearby Chapel Gate and at Blackwater Junction, was originally intended to take place this autumn, however negotiations over land purchase have led to delays.

Overall, the scheme is intended to reduce congestion on the roads around Bournemouth Airport to aid business development in the Aviation Business Park.

A spokesman for the BIG Programme said: "Dorset County Council are engaged in negotiations with landowners regarding the Hurn roundabout scheme and are also considering alternative design options within the existing extent of the public highway requiring no land acquisition.

"A scheme not requiring land acquisition will not be subject to the delays we are currently experiencing. As a result of these land issues other adjacent schemes on the B3073 at Blackwater have been brought forward."

The news was welcomed by Hurn Parish Council chairman and Dorset councillor Margaret Phipps, who last year called for the Hurn works to take place after those at Blackwater.

"The problem lies at Blackwater and at Parley Cross, at the two ends," she said.

"Doing the Blackwater works first is a good idea, we will get an idea how that will help the traffic flow.

"Afterwards we can perhaps judge what might be necessary at Hurn roundabout."

She said that, while the current proposal for Hurn has planning permission, the effects of changes at Blackwater and Parley Cross might mean only a reduced scheme is necessary at Hurn.

The work on the east side of Blackwater is scheduled to be completed in May next year.

The plan at Hurn will see the roundabout moved to the east of its current site, while Parley Lane and the Avon Causeway will be realigned.

The Christchurch Road section will also be re-orientated and the Matchams Lane junction moved.

Around 240 trees will need to be felled, which planners have acknowledged could have an adverse impact on the appearance of the village. However, this was judged secondary to the "need to improve the strategic road network and the benefits to the economy".