New A303 plans considered after Stonehenge tunnel cancellation

The future of the A303 near Stonehenge remains uncertain after plans for a two-mile tunnel were scrapped, leaving questions over how congestion and traffic problems around the ancient monument will be addressed.

The proposed Stonehenge tunnel had been discussed and developed for years, with millions of pounds spent on planning the major road project.

The tunnel was intended to improve the A303 and remove traffic from the immediate Stonehenge landscape, but the project has now been abandoned.

Residents living in communities close to the A303 continue to raise concerns about congestion and traffic using local roads when there are delays or problems on the main route.

One of the areas affected is Shrewton, where vehicles can be diverted through the village when problems occur on the A303.

Wiltshire Council says it is working with National Highways to consider measures that could help protect communities affected by displaced traffic.

One proposal being considered is a new 20mph speed limit through Shrewton, alongside other measures aimed at improving road safety and reducing the impact of traffic on local residents.

National Highways has said it is exploring "best value for money solutions" for the A303 and is investigating smaller-scale improvement projects.

According to National Highways, around 26,000 vehicles use this section of the A303 each day on average, with traffic increasing to more than 30,000 vehicles a day during August.

The authority is carrying out a new study of the A303 to better understand the problems affecting the route and surrounding communities.

At present, National Highways has not confirmed which specific improvement projects will go ahead.

The decision to scrap the tunnel follows around £180m being spent on planning the project, highlighting the scale of the long-running plans for the A303 and Stonehenge.

English Heritage, which owns Stonehenge, has said difficult decisions have to be made regarding public spending, while also stating that it remains ready to engage constructively if future opportunities arise.

For residents and motorists, attention now turns to what practical improvements can be delivered to tackle congestion, improve safety and reduce the impact of A303 traffic on nearby villages.