A SERIES of overnight closures are planned at a major Bournemouth junction in the coming weeks as engineers forge ahead with a nine-month redevelopment.

A programme of works is currently being carried out at the B3073 Blackwater West Junction.

The scheme aims to improve the on and off slips to the A338 Spur Road, as well as improving cycle and footpath facilities on the B3073.

Planners also want to increase the capacity of the junction by widening the road on both sides to create an additional lane.

The area is a notorious traffic blackspot, particularly during the recently-finished nine-month programme of works on the Spur Road. Traffic frequently backed up in Matchams Lane, the Avon Causeway and Parley Lane.

Council officials say the work will be finished by spring next year.

Closure will take place between 8pm and 6am on week nights only in a bid to minimise disruption. They include:

• Overnight closure of Blackwater West Junction, including the on and off slips, this Tuesday, September 10

• From this Wednesday, September 11 to Friday, September 13, the Blackwater West on slip will be closed with one lane remaining open on the off slip. The B3073 will also be closed in both directions from Hurn roundabout to Blackwater West junction.

• On Monday, September 16 and Tuesday, September 17, there will be a full closure of Blackwater West Junction on slip with one lane open on the off slip. The B3073 will again be closed in both directions from Hurn roundabout to Blackwater East junction.

• From Wednesday, September 18 to Friday, September 20, there will be a full closure of the Blackwater West Junction to include all on and off-slips. The B3073 will be closed in both directions.

• From Monday, September 23 to Friday, September 27, there will be a full closure of Blackwater West Junction, including the on and off slips.

Officials from BCP Council say the closures will allow engineers to begin their preparations for the installation of new traffic lights and kerbs, as well as road widening and surfacing works.

Where possible, one lane will be kept open on the Blackwater West off slip.

Councillor Andy Hadley, cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said: “While these works will be taking place overnight to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, drivers should try to plan ahead if they can, allowing extra time for journeys and find alternative routes.

"All diversions will be signposted. We thank road users for their patience during these major improvements.”