National Highways are urging Hampshire drivers to plan ahead for a second weekend closure of the A3 southbound carriageway this month from October 25 to 28.

Earlier in October, a section of the A3 was shut between October 11 and 14 for resurfacing work on the southbound carriageway.

This resulted in "exceptionally heavy traffic conditions" in rural lanes so National Highways are urging drivers to plan their journeys carefully.

Project Manager Joe Cairns, from National Highways, said: “We know the previous weekend closure resulted in gridlock for local villages and exceptionally heavy traffic conditions in rural lanes.

A large section of the A3 will be closed over the October 25-28 weekendA large section of the A3 will be closed over the October 25-28 weekend (Image: National Highways/Google Maps) "To avoid this happening again, please consider if your journey is necessary. If you must travel please keep to the signed diversion, and for those travelling from further afield consider an alternative route to the south, such as the M3.” 

What section of the A3 will be shut?

The southbound carriageway of the A3 will be closed between Petersfield (junction with the A272) and Horndean (A3M junction 2, Hazelton Interchange with B2149).

This will take place from 9pm on Friday, October 25 until 6am on Monday, October 28.

The northbound carriageway of the A3 will remain open and traffic in the area is expected to be busy.

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The diversion route will be via the A272 west towards West Meon Hut, A32 south towards Fareham, A27 east through Porchester & Cosham, and A3 London Rd/Portsmouth Rd north via Purbrook, Waterlooville and Cowplain to A3M Junction 2. 

Joe Cairns added: "We understand that the diversion is long but it’s there for a reason.

"It may be tempting to try a short cut or follow your sat-nav, especially when it’s indicating a quicker route, but by doing so it can have a real negative impact on local communities – and your overall journey time may take just as long."