Funding has been secured to repair a road which has been closed for almost two years.

The C68 in Uploders was closed on February 8 2016 as a precaution after a driveway next to the road collapsed, but further investigation discovered a length of the verge in imminent danger of ‘slipping’ – further reducing the structural integrity of the road – and the road stayed closed for safety reasons.

Dorset County Council has announced that work to reinstate the road will start in April next year.

Dorset Highways said there will be funding for the realignment of the road during the new financial year, meaning the road will be able to reopen next year.

Engineers, with support from the local landowner, have designed a realignment of the road to take it away from the problematic slope which is causing the structural issues.

Councillor Daryl Turner, Cabinet member for the natural and built environment said: “Following detailed design and development, with ongoing negotiations with land owners along the site, we have developed a workable solution. I’d like to thank the team at the county council for their work and the local community for their patience.”

Dorset County Councillor Ros Kayes, elected member for Bridport, said: “Although it is disappointing that work couldn’t start this autumn as hoped, it’s good that we now have confirmation of the funding for next year.

“Residents have been extremely patient and I know it will be a great relief for them to hear that they have not been forgotten.

“We have a commitment now and it must be kept to. The road will have been closed for nearly two years and that's not good for the community.”

For more information visit www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/uploders