MT 106/287

London- Basingstoke Motorway, `D' Ring Road M3: report by consultants

Date range	1964-1970
Location	National Archives (see all files stored here)
Catalogue	See entry
File base	Series MT, subseries MT 106

Context

This document deals with Ringway 3 between the M3 and M4 and also covers the M3 near Sunbury.

Information on the unbuilt sections of Ringway 3 outside its northwestern corner are sketchy but this document contains the most detail by far. Predicted traffic volumes for Ringway 3 between various points are detailed along with a recommendation as to the number of lanes required. At the bottom of the file is a bright white envelope containing the plans. To my amazement they show the full details of the Ringway 3/M3 interchange at 1:2500 scale. Not only that but three different designs are shown ranging from basic roundabouts to a limited access freeflow. Another map shows two routes between M3/A316 and A30, again showing details of some of the junctions. There is also a schematic layout of the Faggs Road area showing a three level stacked roundabout.

We learn that the original plan for Sunbury was a pair of roundabouts over and below the M3 with Ringway 3 meeting one of the roundabouts at-grade. The report goes on to say the new proposals is for a freeflow connection between the outbound M3 and Ringway 3 stating there will be very high traffic volumes between the two roads. The 1:2500 maps previously mentioned show these designs.

Also included is a booklet containing plans of Country Way as built and a press release.

People with camera copies

James Bancroft has copies of the maps and some of the correspondence.