Dan Quina Brito

The A36 between Ower and Bourne Way will close overnight from September 7 to September 12 while National Highways undertakes essential maintenance, potentially including resurfacing, drainage improvements and roadside works. Closures will run from 8pm to 6am, with signed diversions in place and access maintained for residents and emergency services. Drivers travelling between Salisbury and the New Forest are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time.

New Forest District Council has welcomed a national temporary ban on disposable barbecue sales, saying it should reduce wildfire risks during dry, high-risk conditions. The council already prohibits fires, barbecues, fire pits and outdoor cooking in designated areas under a Public Spaces Protection Order that remains in force until June 2029. Council leader Jill Cleary noted that the recent major heathland fire was not caused by a disposable barbecue but demonstrated how quickly fires can spread. The council is working with Forestry England, fire services and Trading Standards to enforce restrictions and is urging visitors to avoid fires, barbecues, dry grass parking and travel to fire-affected areas.

SGN engineers are working to repair a gas leak on Station Road in Tidworth after a car crash caused damage. A man has been arrested for careless driving, while nearby residents have been evacuated. Tidworth Town Council said an information hub is being established and that emergency equipment, including hot plates and fan heaters, may be provided to affected residents. Residents can contact SGN’s customer care line for assistance.

A man was arrested on suspicion of careless driving and a Section 4 Road Traffic Act offence after a crash on Station Road in Tidworth caused a major gas leak. A 100-metre evacuation zone was established, although police said no other vehicles were involved and nobody was believed to have been injured. Police remained at the scene.

Correct Contract Services donated £500 to Whittle & S’more Forest School in Ludgershall after vandals attacked the outdoor learning site twice in two days, damaging equipment, toys, sheds and other facilities. A community fundraising appeal has raised £1,255, exceeding its £700 target, and further donations are sought to help restore the site and resume sessions.

Wiltshire Council will close a section of the A342 between Everleigh Road and the A338 on 27 July 2026 for one day to complete urgent repairs following vehicle fire damage. The closure will run from 09:00 to 16:00, with a signed diversion of about 45 km adding roughly 43 minutes to journeys. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained where possible, though delays are expected, and motorists are advised to follow the designated route and plan for additional travel time.