The A31 in Hampshire is closed in both directions following a vehicle fire on Sunday 9 August, which then spread to nearby heathland.The area now affected by the fire is now estimated to be 165 acres, approximately the size of 200 football pitches
The westbound carriageway is closed between the M27 J2 (Ower) and the A338 (Ringwood).
The eastbound carriageway is closed between the A338 and M27 J1 (Cadnam).
National Highways teams have assessed the damage caused by the fire and significant repairs are required to highways infrastructure. This includes replacement of at least 1,000 metres of boundary fencing, road resurfacing and several hundred metres of vehicle restraint barrier.
Information from scene indicates that this closure will remain in place until at least Thursday 20th August.
Diversion Route
Road users are advised to follow the below diversion route and ignore Satnavs. They are also reminded to stick to the speed limits on local roads and be aware of the New Forest’s livestock, which can roam freely.
Traffic travelling westbound is advised to follow the below diversion route - not symbol led.
- Exit the M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange) onto the A326 towards Ashurst Bridge.
- Join the A35 and head southbound on the A35 through Ashurst, Lyndhurst, Allum Green, Hinton Admiral and Christchurch.
- At the Iford roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the A3060 towards the Cooper Dean roundabout.
- At the Cooper Dean roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the A338.
- Continue northbound on the A338 to the Ashley Heath roundabout to re-join the A31.
Traffic travelling eastbound is advised to follow the below diversion route - not symbol led.
- Exit the A31 at Ashley Heath roundabout onto the A338.
- Continue south on the A338 towards Bournemouth.
- At the Cooper Dean roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A3060.
- Continue on the A3060 to the Iford roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A35.
- Continue on the A35 through Christchurch, Hinton Admiral, Allum Green, Lyndhurst and Ashurst until you reach the A326.
- Head northbound on the A326 to re-join the M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange).
If this closure impacts on your planned route drivers are asked to:
- allow extra time for your journey
- make sure you have enough fuel to complete your journey
- during this hot weather make sure you have extra water and essential medicines with you