Stonehenge 'traffic nightmare' campaign stepped up

The A344 - which ran alongside the stones - closed in June and is being restored to grass

People concerned with traffic congestion in villages near Stonehenge are stepping up a campaign for "urgent action" to be taken.

The A344 next to the monument was shut in June to "restore the dignity" of the stone circle as part of a £27m project.

Residents of villages including Shrewton and Orcheston say their lanes have become "rat runs" for drivers avoiding congestion on the A303.

Campaigners will collect signatures for a petition this weekend.

Janice Hassett, from the Shrewton Traffic Action Group (Stag), said: "The A344 should not have been closed before the A303 was dualled.

Business leaders have campaigned for the dualling of the A303 for 20 years

"The A303 at Stonehenge Bottom was bad before, but it's a nightmare now.

"Traffic is stupidly backing up to Thruxton on a holiday weekend.

"Sat-navs are sending people right through our villages. There's going to be an accident."

The petition is asking for "urgent action" to be taken to tackle high volumes of non-local traffic using the B3086 through Shrewton, a 20mph speed limit to be introduced and better signage to be installed.