Five months of landslip repair work begins on A35 near Chideock
One lane will be closed each way by National Highways throughout
A 'complex operation' to repair a landslip issue on the A35 in Dorset has begun today (Monday 3rd July).
National Highways say they'll be working to the west of Chideock for the next five months, to prevent any further deterioration of the land, and keep drivers safe.
Excavation and stabilisation work will be carried out, but it will mean one lane each way is closed.
Westbound, the climbing lane at Chideock Hill has been removed, while eastbound, a lane's needed for construction traffic and access - leaving one lane open each way.
The project's costing £2 million, with an enhanced drainage system also being put in place while the work's ongoing.
National Highways Service Manager Stephen Potts said:
“We appreciate roadworks can be frustrating but we need to carry out this work to ensure the long-term integrity of this section of the A35.
“This time of year provides the best conditions for building earthworks and ground conditions are optimum now.
“The layout change is purely to allow contractors safe access to the site for plant, equipment and materials. And although there won’t be a climbing lane in operation for some time, we are maintaining traffic flows with a single lane in each direction.
“The stabilisation work will take place on land adjoining the A35, we’re working and communicating with local residents to ensure the impact of noise, vibration and dust is kept to a minimum, and we thank all drivers in advance for their co-operation and patience.”