Wessex Internet Road Works Update

Loders Parish Council has received the following information from Wessex Internet regarding the ongoing works along New Road and the adjoining T‑junction. Wessex Internet recognise the concerns raised by residents, particularly around access, parking, the duration of the closures, and ensuring emergency vehicles can reach properties when needed. Access for residents is being maintained, although there may be short delays while the area is made safe.

Progress on New Road

The works can be viewed as progressing along a T‑shaped layout. The team has been working along the New Road section, where reinstatement is now underway. The expectation is that the New Road section will be completed by Friday 21st August.

Excavation at the T‑Junction

To keep the programme moving, the excavation team has now begun work on the left‑hand side of the T‑junction. This approach allows excavation to continue while reinstatement is completed on New Road, avoiding unnecessary delays that would occur if the excavation team had to wait for each section to be fully tarmacked before moving on.

Current Programme of Works

• New Road: Reinstatement is taking place Thursday 20th and completion is expected by Friday 21st August.
• Left of the T‑junction: Excavation has commenced and will continue along this section.
• Right of the T‑junction: Once sufficient progress has been made on the left‑hand side, works will move across to the right‑hand side.

Temporary Closures on Both Sides of the T‑Junction

There will be a period when both the left and right sections of the T‑junction need to remain closed simultaneously. This is due to one team completing reinstatement while the excavation team progresses to the next area. Completing each section fully before moving on would result in long periods where the excavation team is unable to work, significantly extending the overall duration of the project.

We appreciate that this arrangement is not ideal for residents, but the aim is to keep all teams working continuously so the project can be completed as quickly as practicable.

Signage and Emergency Access

Concerns have been raised about Dorset Council road signs being turned around, potentially giving the impression that roads are open when they are not. This has been reported to the team, and arrangements will continue to be monitored. Any issues relating to emergency vehicle access will remain a priority.

We hope this update provides clarity on the current position and the reasons behind the sequencing of the works.