The A31 will reopen to motorists tomorrow (Saturday) morning following completion of repairs by National Highways.
Resurfacing of the carriageway has been completed, 800 metres of new safety barriers installed and 1,500 metres of boundary fencing replaced.
Kat Saradinova, National Highways’ Head of Scheme Delivery, said: “With the fire raging for over a week, the repairs required were substantial and the conditions challenging.
“Our work to replace the damaged fencing to stop animals getting on to the A31 has been essential for the safe opening of the road. The New Forest is home to thousands of free-roaming animals, and a collision would put road users as well as livestock at risk.”
Temporary protection remains around parapets and safety barriers that were damaged by the fire, and a 40mph speed limit will be in place on the eastbound carriageway. Permanent repairs will be carried out at a later date under overnight closures.
In addition, Lane 1 will remain closed on the westbound carriageway with a 50mph speed limit to allow fire services to safely exit their compound during their continued presence on site. Lay-bys currently remain closed.
Drivers are reminded that the M3 junction 9 roundabout and several surrounding roads will be closed this weekend along with the northbound A3 in Guildford.
Note – National Highways cannot provide a specific time when the road closure will be lifted. This is due to the extensive operation to clear the site. Any updates, including confirmation that the A31 has reopened to traffic will be issued overnight via our regional X account @HighwaysSEAST.
