A KEY route in a town centre in Dorset has closed due to emergency repairs.

A section of the A3066, Prout Hill, has been temporarily closed due to 'two problematic drain covers'.

Dorset Council said contractors from Openreach are carrying out urgent repairs to a defective manhole cover and frame.

A spokeswoman from Dorset Council said: "The A3066 Prout Bridge will remain closed. Contractors working on behalf of Openreach, who are carrying out urgent repairs to a defective manhole cover and frame."

It is anticipated that the road will remain closed for at least the rest of today. A diversion has been provided and signed on the street.

An alternative route includes travelling along North Street, then onto Woodswater Lane, then East Street, and then onto Whitcombe Road.

A spokesman from Beaminster Town Council said: "Openreach have issued an emergency temporary road closure in Beaminster on Prout Hill to replace the two problematic drain covers.

"Unfortunately we have only just become aware of this and therefore we were unable to give prior notice.

"Dorset Council Highways are aware of the traffic chaos caused by the closure and will liaise with Openreach."

Openreach have been contacted to provide an update on this.