WORK on a major overhaul at a busy Dorchester junction – including the installation of pedestrian crossings – is set to begin next month.

Safety improvements are set to begin at the four-way Maumbury Cross junction on Monday, January 13, according to Dorset Council.

The scheme will include installation of signal-controlled pedestrian crossing points, as well as the widening and levelling of footways where possible.

Cllr Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services at the council, said: “The current junction layout, with its narrow footways, limited space to pass or wait to cross and only one controlled crossing point can make it a daunting experience, especially for anyone with limited mobility or vision impairments.

“Full views of approaching vehicles can be difficult and the current layout means some people have to wait in the middle of the road to cross.

“The junction can also be particularly challenging during rush hours when commuting to and from work or school by foot, bike, or car.”

However, traffic lights will be in place during the work, with drivers urged to allow for extra time for journeys taking in the junction, particularly during peak hours.

“The traffic management is there to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians and our highways crews. Please expect some delays and plan accordingly,” Cllr Andrews added.

“It is a complex scheme to build, with four-way traffic movement and thousands of vehicles passing through daily, so I hope everyone can be patient and understanding.”

Improvements to the Maumbury Cross junction in Dorchester will include:

• A new layout and an upgrade of the existing signalling equipment
• New controlled pedestrian crossing points on Maumbury Road eastern arm, Maumbury Road western arm and on Weymouth Avenue northern arm
• Widening and levelling of footways, where possible, to improve the pedestrian environment
• A new section of cycleway and an advanced stop line on the uphill section of Maumbury Road to help cyclists through the junction
• Relocating the existing crossing point on the railway bridge and replacing with a new Puffin crossing closer to Queens Avenue. This will provide more footway space for people waiting to cross the road and will be closer to the main route where students walk to and from school

From January 13 until February 7, during off-peak hours, three-way stop/go signals will be in place on Weymouth Avenue/Queens Avenue from 9.30am to 2.30pm each day.

Then, from February to May, Maumbury Cross controlled with four-way temporary lights, while Edward Road will be closed between Coburg Road and Weymouth Avenue, with a signed diversion in place.