AN order under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulations Act has been enforced for two public footpaths.

Public footpath 20, Thorncombe (for 930 metres) and part of public footpath 50 Broadwindsor (for 1,710 metres) will be temporarily closed to pedestrians for 26 weeks from Thursday, September 20.

Dorset County Council has issued the order to comply with health and safety regulations which require the provision of safe working areas and to minimise the likelihood of danger to highway users.

It has been put in place to allow Balfour Beatty to carry out works to repair/replace the high voltage power lines for Scottish and Southern Electricity.

The order can be extended, with the approval of the Secretary of State for transport, if necessary.

On this occasion, there is no reasonable alternative route for walkers and pedestrians to use.

Any person who uses or permits the use of the footpaths in contravention of the order will be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £1,000.

For more information about the works being carried out, you can contact Darragh Healy, Wayleave Warden for Balfour Beatty on 07566 292402.

For more information about the rights of way matters, you can call Dorset Countryside on 01305 221000.