A KEY road in Dorset will no longer close for 'essential' roadworks – with temporary traffic lights to be in place instead.

As previously reported, Wessex Water workers are upgrading its sewer network on a 350-metre stretch of the A352 in Longburton between its junctions with Bradford Lane and Church Close, starting on Monday, May 17.

Wessex Water and a public notice from Dorset Council previously stated the A352 would be shut in both directions from Monday, May 17 until Friday, May 21.

But now Wessex Water says the A352 will no longer be closed and two-way temporary traffic lights will instead be in place over the duration of the roadworks.

A spokesman blamed an 'incorrectly issued' public notice and apologised for any confusion caused.

He said: “Unfortunately a public notice was incorrectly issued to say the A352 will be closing from Monday, May 17. The road will be open with two-way traffic lights in place for five days.

“The five-day closure is currently planned for July 26, and we’ll be contacting residents and businesses again nearer the time to update them on our sewer upgrade scheme.

“We’re sorry for any confusion and thank the community for their patience while this essential work is completed.”