COMMUTERS planning the back-to-school trips in Salisbury this week are being reminded of a one-way system in place during major works.

Drivers are being warned to allow extra time for their journey given the construction works currently taking place in the city as part of a multi-million pound scheme.

Currently, work is underway on improvement works at Fisherton Gateway.

Due for completion in Summer 2024, the works include widening pavements, introducing new street lighting, enhancing landscaping, improving street furniture and wayfinding, and introducing continuous footpaths at junctions to enhance pedestrian priority.

A one-way system is in place on Fisherton Street for the duration of the works, with traffic able to travel from the junction of South Western Road and Fisherton Street, towards the junction of Fisherton Street and High Street.

The work is being carried out in phases, with excavation works and kerb removal currently being undertaken between Fisherton Bridge to Malthouse Lane.

Click here for a guide to the works and how it will affect drivers and bus users.

Cllr Caroline Thomas, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for transport, said: “A mission supported by our Business Plan is to have vibrant, well-connected communities.

“This project aims to create a vibrant and sustainable city centre for Salisbury by improving the pedestrian areas along Fisherton Street to make it easier, safer and more convenient for local residents, regular visitors and tourists alike to access the city centre.

“Road improvements of this scale can cause some disruption and we apologise for any inconvenience.

“With the traffic around Salisbury likely to increase as youngsters return to school and college, we want to remind drivers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys, taking the one-way system into account.

An overview of the works in Fisherton Gateway. Picture: Wiltshire Council

“For those using buses, Salisbury Reds have published details of the Fisherton Street bus stops which have been temporarily moved on www.salisburyreds.co.uk.

“Those who travel by train also need to be aware that their ongoing journey from the train station may look a little different and pavements may be temporarily closed with alternative footpaths in place during the work phases.”

“Regular updates on the changes to the traffic management arrangements as the project progresses will be available on the council’s website www.wiltshire.gov.uk/salisbury-traffic-management.

“While the works are taking place and Fisherton Street looks a little different, we would like to reassure everyone that it is only temporary. All the wonderfully independent and quirky businesses in the area are all still very much open for business so please do continue to support them.”

Local people and visitors are being encouraged to follow the existing signed routes to enter/exit the car parks in the immediate vicinity. Entry/exit to Culver Street and the Old George Mall Car Parks are unaffected by the works in Fisherton Street.