A section of the C13 road at Dinah’s Hollow, near Shaftesbury in Dorset, has closed to allow stabilisation works expected to last a year. The closure follows concerns over landslips, which Dorset Council said posed a “risk of a fatality” if tree felling and other safety measures were not carried out.
The affected stretch runs between Boundary Road and the B3081. Residents and emergency services will still be able to access the road between Boundary Lane and West Lane. Concrete safety barriers have been installed to prevent further collapses, following previous landslips that completely blocked the route.
The C13 is an important north-south route for Dorset. While the road is closed, a diversion will direct traffic via the A350. HGVs heading southbound will follow a separate route along the A30 to Shaftesbury, then to Stalbridge and the A357, rejoining the A350 south of Steepleton Bends.
Additional traffic measures, including one-way systems and temporary 20mph speed limits, will operate in villages affected by the diversions to help manage the flow of vehicles.
Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services at Dorset Council, said: “This is a vital safety project to protect everyone who uses the C13 and to make sure this route remains resilient for the future. We recognise these works will affect travel, so we have reviewed all options and developed a comprehensive package of traffic management measures.”
“Protecting the unique wildlife and habitats in Dinah’s Hollow will also be our continued priority, and an ecologist will be on site for the duration of the stabilisation project to ensure everything is carried out responsibly.
“We appreciate the community’s continued patience and co-operation while we carry out these essential works.”
