DRIVERS are being urged not to ignore closure signs for the Bridport to Weymouth coast road.

Wessex Water began work along the B3157 earlier this month in order to repair the Abbotsbury water main, which has burst around 30 times in the last 15 years and is in urgent need of replacement.

Residents and visitors are being reminded that due to the work in West Street, Market Street and Rodden Row there is a lengthy diversion in place via the A354 and A35.

A spokeswoman for Wessex Water said some motorists were still trying to drive through Abbotsbury and ignoring the closure signs.

She reminded visitors that a free shuttle bus is available.

She said: “Work is progressing well along Market Street and Rodden Row and we should be finished by end of the week.

“We’ll then move into West Street to renew water mains.

“We’d like to thank local people for their patience and understanding while the essential work is taking place and continue to work hard to get the work completed as soon as possible.”

While the road is closed the company is urging residents and visitors to Abbotsbury to make use of the regular free shuttle bus service, which is keeping people connected to the village.

Wessex Water design engineer Alan Marler, said they were committed to completing the work in a way that keeps disruption to a minimum. Work began on January 6 and is set to be complete within three months.

A spokesman said a more in-depth update would be provided in a couple of weeks.

Marie Peach, of Peach’s Bed and Breakfast on Market Street, praised Wessex Water for its efficient work.

She said: “It is a really quiet time of year for us anyway so the closure hasn’t impacted us really.

“The work has been done quickly and they have made a really clean job of it.

“They have now moved around to the Ilchester Arms and onwards.

“The workers have been friendly and considerate and to be honest we are just glad the repair work is being done.”

Colin Boxshall, landlord at the Ilchester Arms on Market Street, said: “It has been very quiet here but we understand the work needs to be done.

“They are working really hard and are not slacking at all.

“It is what it is and we are looking forward to when the road is open and things can get back to normal.”

For more information about the scheme and bus timetables visit the website: wessexwater.co.uk/abbotsbury