MORE than £3million has been secured to carry out improvements at a "critical" commuter route in the conurbation.

Residents, businesses and road users who regularly travel in and around Wallisdown Road are being invited to help shape future highway improvements planned for the area.

But many say the proposals will do little to ease congestion

The route, on the border of Bournemouth and Poole, is used by around 35,000 vehicles a day and £2 million has been secured from the government to develop the road network.

A further £1.3 million will come from the government's Local Growth Fund to make improvements to Boundary roundabout.

The aims of the scheme are to improve access to public transport, walking and cycling facilities, to reduce road collisions and improve journeys for motorists.

But business owner Matt Pursey, who runs The British Vape Company, said: "I don't think it will make any difference. There will still be too many cars using the road, which causes delays and makes drivers bad-tempered.

"If the road markings were better it might help because traffic gets stuck on the roundabout in the wrong lane."

Davina Gahan, who lives in Wallisdown Road, said: "I can't see how these things will make a difference - there's not enough room to make the roads big enough."

Commuter Steve Almond added: "It would be good to improve safety but I don't think it will make the congestion any better."

Wallisdown and Winton West councillor Nigel Hedges said he hopes the work will eventually see reduced traffic problems in the area and keep traffic flowing.

The plans for the works are in the early stages of development and the public are being asked to complete a survey on the future improvements that could be considered.

This includes improved cycle routes and bus facilities, more convenient crossing points, wider pavements and cycleways, to general enhancements to the local environment.

Larry Austin, Bournemouth council's service director for environment, said: "Implementing improved pedestrian, cycling and bus facilities at Wallisdown Road will see positive benefits for road users, and address safety concerns for cyclists, pedestrians and bus users. We would encourage anyone who lives, works and travels regularly though this part of town to take part in the survey."

The information gathered through the survey will influence the changes that take place in the future. Construction is due to begin in 2020.

Jim Stewart, chair of Dorset LEP said: “The scheme will help address the wider long-standing congestion and road safety issues along the Wallisdown Road, which currently present a significant cost to the local economy.”

The survey is available at bournemouth.gov.uk/wallisdownroad until Friday August 3.