THE A338 will close for three nights next week.

Both sides of the carriageway will shut between Cooper Dean and Ashley Heath on October 23, 24 and 25 for work to bridges along the stretch.

The closures will be in force between 8pm and 6am.

During the works, engineers will use cranes to lift precast concrete units into place to join the existing two bridges spanning the River Stour.

A spokesperson from Bournemouth council said: "The road closure is necessary for safety to allow heavy machinery to operate on the carriageway without causing a danger to road users.

"Diversions will be in place. Apologies for any inconvenience."