ONE of the region’s most “high-risk” roads is set to benefit from a major cash injection to improve safety.

BCP Council will receive £1.9m to transform the A35 between the A338 north of Bournemouth and the junction with the A3060 west of Christchurch – encompassing Christchurch Road through Boscombe.

The authority says money will be spent on measures to reduce the number crashes, stating how the A35 has “suffered from several serious accidents over the last few years”.

Government investment to local authorities for its Safer Roads Fund has reached £47.5m for 27 different schemes around the country. The A35 was identified as requiring funding based on a road safety risk, looking at data on those killed and seriously injured alongside traffic levels.

Bournemouth Echo: Iford RoundaboutIford Roundabout

In total, BCP Council will receive £1,890,625 for the scheme. No final decisions have been made on what improvements will be made, but the government provided examples including better designed junctions, improved signage and safer pedestrian crossings.

Cllr Mike Greene, member for transport at BCP Council, said: “This part of the A35 has suffered from several serious accidents over the last few years, with many of them involving vulnerable road users.

“This funding will allow the council to look at how best the number of crashes and injuries can be reduced.

“I cannot say exactly what measures will be put in place, but they could involve speed control, particularly on approaches to roundabouts; changes to junction layouts; and improved lighting.

Bournemouth Echo: A35 Christchurch Road in Boscombe.A35 Christchurch Road in Boscombe.

“The changes won't eradicate the accidents, but if they can reduce their number and their severity it will be money well spent. We are really pleased to have successfully demonstrated to government that they should be investing here.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Britain’s roads are some of the safest in the world, but we are always looking at ways to help keep motorists and all road users safer.

“That’s why we’re investing nearly £9 million to improve road safety across the south west and this is the first crucial step to ensuring local councils have the support they need to keep everyone safe, while also reducing congestion and emissions.”

According to Road Safety Foundation analysis, early estimates suggest the £47.5m investment should prevent around 760 fatal and serious injuries nationally over the next 20 years.