By Oliver Streather-Paul

Motorists are reminded a road in Dorset will be closed for four weeks from today due to demolition work.

And work is starting early today and finishing at midday so a wedding isn't disrupted.

Dorset Council says the A357 near Durweston north of Blandford will be closed at its junction with the A350 from Saturday, June 22 until Sunday, July 21.

Drivers travelling between Blandford and Sturminster Newton are being reminded to allow extra time for their journey.

The closure is needed because the flood arches on the eastern side of the village – and the road over them – are being demolished to make way for new culvert units to be installed.

Demolition work will start tomorrow.

The signed diversion route for all traffic will be on the same ‘A’ classification of road to ensure it is suitable for all vehicles.

Drivers are directed to use the A350 to Shaftesbury, A30 to Henstridge and A357 back down to Durweston.

The diversion route is so long as there are no other ‘A’ roads in the area, but motorists may choose to find alternative local routes.

However, drivers have been asked not to use private roads in the area and to use roads suitable for their vehicle.

Dorset Council portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, Cllr Ray Bryan said: “I know this is going to be an incredibly frustrating time for drivers in the area with longer journey times and busier roads, but please respect each other.

“Use roads suitable for your vehicle, allow give-and-take on narrower roads and remain off private roads unless you have permission to use them.”

The noisy removal works are being carried out from 7am today to ensure a couple's wedding at St. Nicholas’s Church in Durweston isn’t disrupted later in the day.

Cllr Bryan added: “We were contacted by the bride before we started our work and as the wedding is on the first day of the closure, I’m pleased to be able to accommodate her request for us not to disrupt the special day.”

Dorset Highways has been working along the A357 at Durweston since mid-March to prepare for the replacement of the flood arches.

For more information, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/durweston-flood-arches