ESSENTIAL work to repair a bridge in Christchurch will close one of the main routes into the town for eight weeks in the autumn.

Businesses and traders are being asked to attend a public meeting on the evening of Monday June 13 at the Regent Centre Studio in Christchurch to discuss the works due to take place on Waterloo Bridge in Bridge Street.

The repairs are being carried out by Dorset County Council to halt damage caused to the stonework, and engineers will construct a concrete slab and waterproofing layer over the bridge to stop the problem worsening.

The work is scheduled to start on September 12 and run for eight weeks.

Because the road will need to be excavated to carry out the work, the bridge will need to be closed to all vehicles during this period.

During the work, pedestrian and cyclist access through the site will be allowed. However, the High Street, Castle Street and Bridge Street will be unsuitable for very large vehicles that would normally proceed across Waterloo Bridge as it will become difficult for them to turn around.

A spokesperson from Dorset County Council said: “Following initial consultation, the proposed start date has been chosen to cause the least disruption to residents and traders.

"It is important the work is not carried out in the colder months, as this would pose an increased risk of interruption to gas or water supplies, or of the road closure being extended.”

County council officers will be available to answer any questions at the information evening.

Doors will open at 6pm, with a brief presentation to be given at 7pm.

For more information, contact Dorset County Council on 01305 221020.