BEAMINSTER Tunnel is set to be closed for works tomorrow, with a 43 mile diversion route in place as work is carried out to remove a tree.

Tunnel Road will be closed at both entrances to the tunnel from 8am until 5pm on Thursday, August 26.

The road closure notice will remain in force for five days, but it is anticipated that the works will be completed on the day.

The closure will be place to enable Upton Tree Services Ltd safe access to carry out urgent tree works on behalf of Dorset Council to remove a dead tree.

During the road closure, a 43 mile diversion route will be signposted and will take motorists across Dorset and into Somerset, taking approximately an hour and 12 minutes.

The reason for the length of the diversion is because the closure is on an A-road and therefore any official alternative route must use the same class of road.

Alternatively, there are a number of shorter but unofficial routes that drivers can take to avoid the road closure. These are not suitable for HGVs and should be avoided if using larger machinery.

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