PLANS for a new link road and junction from the A338 to the Wessex Fields business park have now been submitted.

Part of Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership’s Bournemouth International Growth (BIG) Programme the proposed scheme is intended to improve the transport infrastructure in the area and encourage business investment in the park - east of Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

The plans have sparked opposition from campaigners due variously to the loss of Green Belt land, the loss of listed buildings, concerns over pollution and development of the outskirts of Holdenhurst village.

The application has been submitted to Bournemouth council's planning board by the borough itself in conjunction with Dorset County Council.

Bournemouth councillor Mike Greene, cabinet member for transport, said: “Wessex Fields is a major asset in Bournemouth already earmarked for employment.

"However, the existing road networks are congested, inadequate and are acting as a barrier to growth.

"Through additional government funding we have an opportunity to transform the transport infrastructure, by connecting the Wessex Fields business park and surrounding area to the A338."

Dorset LEP director Lorna Carver said: "The proposed link road and junction around Wessex Fields will open up major economic opportunities for Dorset - unlocking new employment land and creating jobs.

"The proposed development will also safeguard existing jobs, improve connectivity, encourage sustainable travel and provide a second access route into the Royal Bournemouth Hospital – all excellent benefits for Dorset’s businesses and people."

Despite the urging of Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood to the contrary, the application consists of both Phase 1 - the link road from the westbound carriageway - and Phase 2 - the more controversial linking road bridge connecting to the eastbound carriageway.

It includes the demolition of Townsend Barn - a Grade II listed cob barn of some historical merit.

At present, only Phase 1 has funding in place, with construction due to start in early 2019 if consent is granted.

Bournemouth council says events will be held in the new year allowing people to speak with the officers behind the application.

The planning application reference is 7-2017-9177-DH.