Gillingham to Poole commute

[LosingGrip]

Hi all,

Does anyone have any advice on what it would be like for a commute from the Gillingham area (maybe Shaftsbury) to Poole?

I would need to be at Poole (oakdale area) for 0900 and leaving around 1900. Leaving I think I'll miss all the rush hour traffic.

I'm planning a hour and 20 minutes based on how long it takes me to get back from Wincanton. This is leaving at 0830 though and I get back around 1000.

Advice would be welcome . Looking at moving in with the other half after Xmas.

[cptsideways]

It can take 20mins plus to get through the Gillingham Gridlock depending on how many sets of traffic lights you have to contend with. Or go via Motcombe Shaftesbury can also be a pain. It takes 45min on a good clear run, I'd say 1.30 in traffic. Knock 25min off from Shaftsbury at busy times or 10min on good day.

There is a good alternative traffic free route going to the west side of Blandford/Poole (tractors are biggest issue) its longer but can be significantly quicker. East Stour-Todber-Okeford Fitzpaine-Winterbourne Whitechurch.

[interstellar]

If you are coming Shaftesbury to Poole make sure you take the high road to blandford from Shaftesbury as the locals call it.

This is the one via Compton Abbas airfield not the main signposted route, it’s much quicker and less bendy roads

[Saleen836]

interstellar said:

If you are coming Shaftesbury to Poole make sure you take the high road to blandford from Shaftesbury as the locals call it.

This is the one via Compton Abbas airfield not the main signposted route, it’s much quicker and less bendy roads

Except most of the 'high road' is almost all now 50mph limit so the self appointed road police drive along at 45-50mph so on busy days the chances of overtaking are greatly reduced

[LosingGrip]

Thanks all . Something to consider! Long drive for a st job...fuel costs are going to be close to £200 a month just to get to and from work :O. Currently a four mile drive there and back...

[SimonTheSailor]

If it's a st job then probably st money too ?
Time at home/with friends/family is worth more than spending 3 hours a day commuting even if you are getting paid more.

[LosingGrip]

SimonTheSailor said:

If it's a st job then probably st money too ?
Time at home/with friends/family is worth more than spending 3 hours a day commuting even if you are getting paid more.

The money isn't too bad for what I actually do (delivery driver). I could go to another store, but it would be less money and they don't do deliveries there. Plus it's only until I either qualify as a driving instructor or join the police.