MOTORISTS could face over two months of disruption as road closures are rolled-out for water mains work on two west Dorset country roads.

Wessex Water have already started works to replace the water mains along Bluntshay Lane and Mutton Street in Shave Cross, but will now be putting in place road closures from January 26.

The first of these will be in effect from Monkwood Lane to the Shave Cross Inn fox six weeks.

Following this, Bluntshay Lane will be closed between Shave Cross and Whitchurch Canonicorum for three weeks.

Wessex Water said the works are part of their plans to improve the water supply in Bridport and the old water mains will be replaced with plastic pipes, which they said will 'modernise the water network and improve the service to customers in the area'.

They added diversion signs will be in operation for the duration of the works, but these will not prevent daily vehicle access for local residents and access to local businesses will still be available along the diversion route.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said: “The ageing water mains the area, which are prone to bursting, need to be replaced so we can provide a reliable water supply for households and businesses in the area. 

"Due to the roads being narrow, we will need a road closure in place so work can be carried out, but access will remain for local residents and visitors to the Shave Cross Inn. 

"We have consulted with the parish council about the work and following useful feedback, we are reviewing the proposed diversion route. 

"We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused by the essential work.”