Like many parents I'm sure, I keep telling my children that Father Christmas is busy in his workshop at this time of year preparing their presents and, of course, that's exactly where he is.
However, it seems he did pop out a few times of late and I'm thinking he's been in Winchester.
The past few weeks have seen announced the largest public infrastructure investments this area has seen in many years.
Alongside my predecessor and a great many councillors (of all parties and none) I have campaigned to bring a quieter surface to the M3 motorway throughout Winchester and Chandler's Ford.
It was pleasing enough to learn back in the Summer that this work would be brought forward from 2020 to be complete by 2017 but it was Christmas comes early to learn last week it will now be done by the end of March next year.
As the Chronicle reported, Shepherds Down School have been brilliant in helping get us to this point and I thank Headteacher Jane Sansome for her persistence.
What everyone should remember however is this; while low noise surface will make a big difference it clearly does not remove the motorway altogether and I think it's important we all recognise that.
Santa drop part two came up at Junction 9 of the M3/A34 where we now have a comprehensive scheme coming forward worth upwards of £100m.
The Prime Minister came to Winchester this Summer and got stuck himself at Junction 9. He sent me a text at the time saying how this spot needs investment to which I replied I might just know a man who can!
While not part of my cunning plan, it wasn't exactly unhelpful in the campaign to bring what will be fundamental change to this bottleneck. I plan to meet with Highways Agency officials in early January and can't wait to pour over the plans, making sure as we go that Winchester and local traffic - including National Cycle Route 22 which runs through the junction - is strongly represented at every turn.
As I said at PMQs the other day, this is good news for our area but any of it is only possible because we have a growing economy again that is making savings yes; but still investing in our infrastructure.
Of course it's never enough; I am very aware for-instance, we need to push for motorway resurfacing north of Junction 9 and that's next in my sights. For now however, Santa has other priorities and for a week or so, I think that's fair enough.
May I wish you a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Steve Brine
