YET again the other night it took more than three quarters of an hour to travel from J7 on the M27 to Bitterne, a journey which usually only takes minutes. This was because of the horrendous traffic snarl-up caused by the closure of part of Bursledon Road.

Would it not have made sense to rejoin the missing link in Botley Road between Bursledon Road and Kanes Hill temporarily? It would not alleviate all of the problem but would be a start.

Or is this a plot between the government and the council to make us all burn more fuel, hence pay more tax and hey presto, they don't have to find the money for the repairs because extra money is rolling in? Magic...

KELVIN BARBER, Bitterne Village, Southampton.