A ROAD in North Dorset will be closed for nearly three months as ‘ageing pipework’ prone to bursting will be replaced.

Wessex Water is already carrying out work on the B3143 in Pulham, near Sherborne, with a temporary 30mph speed limit in place ahead of water main replacement work in February.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said workers are replacing ‘ageing pipework in the area’ that has been prone to bursts and essential work which will also improve water quality in the area.

A 2,360-metre stretch of the road will be closed between Pulham Business Park and Holwell Road from Monday, February 1 to Friday, April 21, with two separate diversions in place for light and heavy vehicles.

Dorset Echo: The B3143 in Pulham will be closed for nearly three months. Picture: Google MapsThe B3143 in Pulham will be closed for nearly three months. Picture: Google Maps

Water supplies will not be affected, and Wessex Water has written to residents and businesses who may be affected, as well as liaising with school bus companies to arrange temporary stops.

Wessex Water’s Paul Delves, who is coordinating the work, said: “The narrow width of the road running through Pulham and the size of our equipment unfortunately means this temporary closure is necessary for the safety of the community, road users and our workforce.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused by this essential work.

“Access for residents living within the closure will always be maintained and every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum.”

Travel Dorset has published the official diversion route online, which will take approximately 27 minutes to follow the 15.3-mile route and take drivers across Dorset.

Dorset Echo: The road closure and diversion route.The road closure and diversion route.

On the diversion route, drivers must head south on B3143 towards B3146 for 0.8 miles and then turn right onto B3146.

After following the road, motorists then turn left to stay on B3146 and turn right onto A352 for 1.3 miles.

Drivers will travel on this road before taking a right onto A3030 and stay on this road for 5.8 miles.

After turning right onto Blackrow Lane/B3143, drivers then follow B3143 for 1.7 miles.

The diversion route will be signposted on the road.

Anyone with any concerns or wish to discuss any issues regarding the roadworks can contact Dorset Council online via http://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/roadworks/enquiries