Study set to cause traffic delays

Drivers will not be warned in advance where the surveys will be conducted

Drivers in Dorset and Hampshire are being warned to expect delays when they have to pull over and fill in a form.

A total of 60 locations across Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Ringwood will be randomly manned starting from Tuesday until 5 June.

Drivers will be forced to pull over but can refuse to answer the questions, which cover topics about the purpose of their journey and their destination.

The study forms part of a £2m scheme to determine transport needs in the area.

Drivers will not be informed in advance of the surveys as organisers wanted "people to go about their usual business".

It is hoped the responses will help build an accurate picture of transport movements in the area and influence future road and transport improvements over the next 20 years.

Rick Clayton, project manager for the South East Dorset Transport Study, said: "We apologise for some inevitable delays due to these surveys, but hope drivers will be patient and acknowledge the importance of the work that is being undertaken.

"Everything possible will be done to minimise the impact during peak travel times and forewarn travellers to allow extra time for important meetings or flights."