Closures on A35 in Dorset from Dorchester to Bridport

The works will mean stretches of the regularly-used route will be closed overnight across various dates in March. 

The first area of the road that will be closed will be between Axminster and Bridport.

The closure will take place overnight from 8pm until 6am the following day.

The work will begin on Thursday, March 16 and will finish on the morning of Tuesday, March 21. The A35 will be open in the daytime during this period. A diversion will be in place navigating drivers via the A358, A30 and A3066.

Following the completion of these works, part two of the maintenance operation will take place on the stretch of the A35 between Bridport and Poundbury near Dorchester. 

The 13-mile route will be closed overnight between Tuesday, March 21 and Saturday, April 1. 

As per the first set of closures they will take place between 8pm and 6am overnight. 

During this closure a diversion will be in place for vehicles planning to use the route, they will be directed via the A35, A3066 to Misterton via A356 onto the A37 to the A35 at Poundbury. 

In a joint letter, South West Highways and Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Services who are responsible for the works said: "We have tried to minimise disruption to road users and residents.

"Please note that the works planned are weather susceptible and may be subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. We will endeavour to communicate any change in the programme as soon as possible."

A specific contact number has been created for those with queries regarding the works and can be reached at 01404 823871. 

"We realise that these works may cause inconvenience to some local residents and road users. 

"We would however like to take this opportunity to apologise if any inconvenience is caused."

Drivers will be urged to allow for extra time for their journeys considering the diversions in place. 

The road is one of the most-used routes in Dorset especially between the towns of Bridport and Dorchester.