A SIX-month project to replace the Durweston flood arches in North Dorset has completed.

Work to replace the three flood arch structures with new, pre-cast concrete units started in March.

Dorset Council said the flood arches were deteriorating at an increasing rate and needed to be replaced for the safety of road-users.

Dorset Council highways cabinet member, Cllr Ray Bryan, said: "These new flood arches will ensure the continued protection of the causeway across the flood plain, which is a vital link for these communities – and our embankment and fencing modifications will also improve the safety of this section of road.

"The team has done a great job keeping this complex project on programme, and the understanding and support from the local community has been tremendous.

"Thank you for your patience.”

Meanwhile, ward councillor Sherry Jespersen, said: "We’re all thrilled that the work has been completed on time, as promised.

"Not only has the project delivered new flood arches, we will also benefit from the new road surface, embankments, verges and fencing – which are all much more suited to the volume of traffic and type of vehicles using this road.

“Our thanks to the residents of Durweston and surrounding villages, who have patiently borne the disruption.”

Over the next few weeks, the works compound will be dismantled and the access tracks will be removed to reinstate the previous grassland.