New crossing underneath A3 opened

The underpass is part of a £371m scheme

A new crossing has been opened underneath the A3 in Surrey for farmers, walkers, riders and cyclists.

The construction of the Greensand Way underpass is part of the £371m project to take the A3 carriageway under the Devil's Punchbowl at Hindhead.

Viewing platforms have been built near the scheme to allow walkers the chance to keep pace with the work.

Paul Arnold from the Highways Agency said he was delighted the underpass had been finished early.

Denis Holmes, of the Ramblers Association, said: "The Greensand Way is one of the most important long distance paths in our area and we are pleased to see that the early opening of this new underpass has been given priority by the tunnel construction team.

"Our members, and other recreational users, will all benefit."

'Better access'

The A3 tunnel at Hindhead, due to open to traffic in summer 2011, will complete the dual carriageway link between London and Portsmouth.

It will free more than 400 hectares of heathland for walking, horse riding and other leisure activities.

Caroline White, Hindhead Together Project Co-ordinator, said: "Getting this new access link built as early as possible in these major road improvement works is a great step forward for local people and recreational users."

"It will provide better access for pedestrians, riders and cyclists who like to use the extensive network of local Rights of Way."

The Devil's Punchbowl is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and also part of an international special protection area designated under the EU Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

The twin-bore tunnel is expected to remove 30,000 vehicles a day from the site.