TRADERS are literally putting out the bunting now that Charminster is back open for business.

Roadworks are finishing today after six months of work at one of Bournemouth’s busiest junctions.

The road is already open to traffic, the pedestrian barriers are being cleared away, and all the improvements unveiled.

“It will be fabulous,” said Margaret Barnaby, from Barnaby Opticians on Charminster Road.

“All the traders are tidying up and putting out their flags. All of us are relieved that it’s finished.

“The area’s going to look brilliant.”

Bournemouth council started work last December and the temporary traffic lights have been frustrating motorists.

The biggest job was the repair and reconstruction at the junction of Charminster Road, Alma Road and Richmond Park Road.

Lesley Stephenson from Head 2 Toe security said: “People have been avoiding the area – it’s understandable, they didn’t want to be held up.

“But we are definitely in a party mood now. Some people have been putting bunting up outside their shops.”

Lesley is chairman of the area’s trade association and praised the council for keeping people informed about the work though regular meetings.

She added: “The road was dreadful at the traffic lights. Iit was sinking down and in a state of disrepair.

“The council decided to do all the work in the area in one hit. It was hard, but the best way to do it.”

The junction’s kerbs have been replaced, pavements resurfaced, traffic lights upgraded and a new pedestrian crossing installed.