A MAIN route to a rural village near Christchurch will be closed for at least nine weeks.

Work on Burley Road, which leads from Winkton to Bransgore, started last Monday, and is likely to continue until Sunday, September 6.

Dorset County Council, who are carrying out the work, are rebuilding Clockhouse Bridge, with vehicles stopped from going over the bridge while the work is ongoing, limiting access routes to Bransgore.

The order could also be extended should the work overrun.

In a letter to residents, informing them of the work, Dorset County Council said the work would involve the excavation and demolition of the existing concrete deck bridge.

It will be replaced with a new reinforced concrete bridge.

John Burridge, bridge management at Dorset County Council said: "We have programmed the works to take nine weeks and currently expect the works to be completed within that time.

"We are only a week into the works and many things yet to be uncovered could hold us up.

"We have planned the works to be completed efficiently. We have spoken to the residents immediately neighbouring the bridge and have their support.

"Advance notices were erected to warn of the proposals, emergency services were consulted and letters sent to around 70 of the nearest properties.

"The road is completely closed at the bridge and signs lead highway users around an alternative route on roads of equivalent standard.

"We have listened to the concerns expressed by local businesses and amended signing to ensure local people and visitors are aware that all businesses are open as usual."

Pedestrian access is available for the duration of the works.

Diversions have been put in place for vehicles to use Derritt Lane for access to Bransgore.