A cash injection of £1.6m by Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (Dorset LEP) plus £313,400 from BCP Council, will enable work to start this summer on the Boundary roundabout, which is at the east end of Wallisdown Road.

There will be major changes to the roundabout’s four road approaches and the installation of new crossings, footways and cycle paths to ensure safer and more effective traffic flow and journeys.

Jim Stewart, chairman of Dorset LEP said, “The investment in Boundary Roundabout futureproofs a prime economic corridor linking Bournemouth and Poole. It carries around 24,000 vehicles a day and is also a key route for university students with approximately 7,000 pedestrians and 750 cyclists negotiating this busy roundabout daily during term time.”

Professor Emma Hunt, deputy vice-chancellor of Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) said, “Investment in these key transport links will vastly improve travel for residents and visitors, attracting additional valuable investment to the area and encouraging those studying in Bournemouth to launch their creative enterprises in the town too.”

Councillor Andy Hadley, Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure at BCP Council said, “The essential improvements to Boundary Roundabout will reduce collisions in the area by providing safer facilities for all users, especially pedestrians and cyclists, at a location that has been especially problematic. This will also help to encourage the uptake of more sustainable, healthier and environmentally friendly modes of transport along one of the conurbation’s key connecting routes.”

He added that whilst the works are being carried out, people should plan ahead for their journey and use alternative routes when possible.

The work at the roundabout is due to be completed by spring 2021.