Visitors to a beauty spot near Clanfield may have to skip the high road as the loftiest car park in East Hampshire is getting a much-needed upgrade.

There will be limited parking at the Butser Hill car park from Monday (June 30) as a six-week improvement project will begin.

The main car park will be closed for three weeks from next Monday, July 7, but a temporary car park with room for 25 vehicles near the kiosk will open on Saturday (July 5).

The improvements being made by Hampshire County Council include the creation of a safer one-way system, clearer signage and marked parking bays.

Landscaping and planting will help the improved car park blend into its surroundings, while the road verges leading to the lofty site will also be repaired.

New fencing will also be installed to prevent motorists from parking on the South Downs Way in a project delivered by HCC with support from the National Grid Landscape Enhancement Initiative and the South Downs National Park Authority.

“These much-needed upgrades will make the car park safer, more accessible and more in-keeping with the beautiful surroundings of the nature reserve and ancient monument,” said a spokesperson for HCC.

“Parking in the main Butser car park will be very limited from June 30 before closing for three weeks from July 7.

“As parking will be limited throughout the project, please consider exploring other areas of Queen Elizabeth Country Park where there is plenty of parking available.”

If you fancy swapping four wheels for two and exploring the park on your bike then check out CycleFest at QECP next Saturday, July 5, from 10am to 4pm.

Expect a day of wheely good fun with demo bikes, coaching sessions, guided and social rides, workshops, bike checks, product displays and more at the free event.