Dorset Council has confirmed changes to public access in Puncknowle and scheduled road closures in Shillingstone and Hinton St Mary set for October 2026. These actions aim to improve local infrastructure and footpaths, though they will affect travel and access temporarily.
The council confirmed the Dorset Council (Part of Footpath 11, Puncknowle) Public Path Diversion Order 2026 as unopposed on 17 September 2026 under Section 119 of the Highways Act 1980. The new route has been completed and deemed suitable for public use. The original footpath passed through the gardens of several properties before crossing farmland. The diverted path now takes a different trajectory, maintaining a minimum width of 2 metres, except at one point where a pedestrian gate measuring 1.1 metres wide has been installed following recommended standards (BS5709:2018).
Maps and details of the confirmed diversion are available to view free of charge at County Hall, Colliton Park, Dorchester during regular office hours and on the Dorset Council website. The order took effect from 24 September 2026. People wishing to challenge the order may apply to the High Court within six weeks from 1 October 2026 on allowable legal grounds.
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In Shillingstone, Newmans Drove will be closed between Bere Marsh junction and a point approximately 825 metres north. The closure is necessary for carriageway maintenance and resurfacing work. The Temporary Traffic Management Order begins on 8 October 2026 and will remain in place for up to 18 months, with expected completion by 4 November 2026. A clearway will be enforced, and parking will be suspended along this stretch during the works.
Similarly, Ridgeway Lane in Hinton St Mary will be closed between Hinton Drive and a point 300 metres east to facilitate resurfacing and maintenance. This closure also starts on 8 October 2026 and is expected to conclude by 5 November 2026. Parking restrictions and clearway orders will apply throughout this period.
Road closures will only be implemented as indicated by on-site signage. Advance warnings will be displayed approximately two weeks before commencement. Vehicles parked in violation of these instructions may be removed under the Removal and Disposal of Vehicles Regulations 1986.
For enquiries regarding access or the maintenance work, Dorset Highways can be contacted on 01305 228100. Questions about the legal orders can be directed to the council at 01305 221020.
These notices are signed by council officials Jonathan Mair, Monitoring Officer for the path diversion, and Jan Britton, Executive Director for Economy and Environment, for the traffic management orders.
Residents and visitors are advised to plan accordingly around these dates and follow all signage for their safety and convenience.