‘Once-in-a-generation improvements’: Bournemouth bus corridor works remain on track
The roadworks at Gervis Place in Bournemouth town centre are “making good progress” as part of a wider bus improvement scheme
Major roadworks in Bournemouth town centre are making “great progress”, according to BCP Council.
Work began in May on Gervis Place under the council’s bus service improvement programme, which aims to create a more reliable and accessible public transport corridor through the town centre.
The project includes the reconstruction of the road, enhanced pedestrian facilities and the introduction of two-way bus movements along Old Christchurch Road.
A public consultation found that 72% of respondents supported the scheme’s objectives, which are intended to improve bus journey times and make the area easier to navigate on foot.
The works, funded through a multi-million-pound government grant, involve a complete rebuilding of the road surface, widened pavements with raised kerbs for step-free boarding, new crossings and upgraded passenger facilities.
New bus shelters equipped with seating, real-time information displays and enhanced CCTV are expected to begin appearing before the end of July.
Councillor Andy Hadley said the project remained on schedule despite the inevitable disruption caused by the long-term road closure, which is expected to stay in place until February 2027.
“We’re making great progress on the Gervis Place bus service improvement scheme, with major resurfacing work now well underway,” he said, explaining that Bournemouth’s sandy ground conditions required a full reconstruction of the road to ensure its long-term durability.
Cllr Hadley described the works as “once-in-a-generation improvements” that would bring lasting benefits for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
He added that the scheme remained on track for completion, subject to weather conditions, and thanked the public for their continued patience during the construction period.
The overhaul forms part of a wider effort to encourage greater use of public transport and create a more accessible, sustainable town centre for Bournemouth.