Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin MP, visited a high profile accident spot near Winchester on the morning of 11th November.
He made a flying visit to A33 junction outside the Cart & Horses Pub at Kings Worthy after being invited by local MP Steve Brine.
Mr Brine is working with a special campaign group made up of parish, city and county Councillors for the area to improve safety at the spot which has seen numerous accidents in recent years, including one that required the Air Ambulance to attend back in September.
Hampshire County Council have responded and recently offered to make small scale improvements for pedestrians and cyclists but that has been rejected by the campaign group who say more fundamental change is needed to reduce speed in the area and make it safer for drivers, walkers and cyclists.
Steve Brine says; "We're not being ungrateful in rejecting what's on the table, we definitely want this junction to be safer for all who use it, not least because it's a gateway to the National Park. But we are clear, and so many residents have told me they agree, that we need more fundamental change to the road layout if we are to truly tackle the issue and give my constituents some sense of confidence again when using it.
"The reason this is coming to a head is because of the large number of houses planned, including at Barton Farm, which will only increase pressure at the junction. I hope the visit of a Cabinet Minister will focus minds and send a clear signal that we cannot and will not let this one drop."
Patrick McLoughlin added; "I realise this is not going to be a quick fix and understand the local authority have to spend every penny wisely but there is clearly widespread concern among Steve's constituents about safety at what looks like a nasty junction and he is obviously working hard to find a solution. I have asked him to keep me briefed on developments."
Pictured; Steve Brine MP and Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin at the junction this morning (Monday 11 November 2013)
