A31 still closed between Ower and Ringwood after vehicle fire
The blaze broke out back on August 9th
There are still closures in place on the A31 after a vehicle fire on 9th August spread to nearby heathland.
The fire has extended to an area estimated at 165 acres, which is roughly the size of 200 football pitches.
The roads are closed westbound between M27 J2 (Ower) and A338 (Ringwood) and eastbound between A338 and M27 J1 (Cadnam).
National Highways teams assessing the damage have determined that significant repairs are necessary.
These repairs involve replacing at least 1,000 metres of boundary fencing, road resurfacing, and several hundred metres of vehicle restraint barrier.
The closure is expected to continue until at least Thursday, 20th August.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service is providing updates on their website.
Diversion Routes
Motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and ignore Satnavs.
Westbound traffic should exit the M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange) onto the A326, then proceed southbound on A35 through Ashurst, Lyndhurst, Allum Green, Hinton Admiral, and Christchurch.
At the Iford roundabout, drivers should take the 3rd exit onto A3060 towards Cooper Dean roundabout, then continue northbound on A338 to the Ashley Heath roundabout to rejoin the A31.
Eastbound traffic should exit A31 at Ashley Heath roundabout onto A338, continue towards Bournemouth, take the 1st exit at Cooper Dean roundabout onto A3060, then follow A35 through Christchurch, Hinton Admiral, Allum Green, Lyndhurst, and Ashurst.
Finally, head northbound on A326 to rejoin M27 at J2 (Ower Interchange).
Travel Guidance
Drivers impacted by this closure should allow extra time for their journey.
Ensure you have sufficient fuel and, during hot weather, carry extra water and essential medicines.
More information about travelling in hot weather can be found through National Highways travel apps and regional social media.
Our 24/7 contact centre team is available at 0300 123 5000 for real-time updates.