Stratton Parish Council wrote to Dorset Council Highways in November 2021 requesting an update on the actions agreed following concerns raised regarding the safety of the A37 between the railway bridge and the entrance to Stratton village. A response was received on 10 January and discussed at the last Parish Council meeting. In brief, the response from Dorset Council confirms;
- A speed survey was undertaken in December. The results are in line with Highway’s expectations – there was no evidence of excessive speed,
- Dorset Council have made improvements to the road surface and drainage to attempt to reduce the ‘drag’ of water from under the bridge,
- They will continue to deploy mitigation measures such as the ice warring signs and gritting which, as well as an enhanced inspection routine manages the situation as far as is practicable,
- The evidence to date (speed survey, lack of fatalities etc.) does not justify further significant works at the moment.
However, there was mention of a future feasibility study to change the bridge structure, to dual the Dorchester bound carriageway and other potential longer terms options – but no details given.
Stratton Parish Council will continue to hold discussions with Dorset Council regarding this matter and update parishioners when further information becomes available.
23rd January 2022 – Update on Road Safety Issues on the A37