The Great Dorset Steam Fair will have a permanent road network built on its site after bad weather disrupted last year’s event.
Tractors were needed to help move exhibits during 2014’s show when the ground cut up badly after heavy rain.
The new roads will take three years to complete and will involve the laying of more than three miles (5km) of new roads. Changes to the layout of public campsites and car parks are also planned before this year’s event at Tarrant Hinton Showground.
Organisers said: “It is envisaged that these measures will greatly improve access times on arrival, ease traffic congestion on site and generally enhance both exhibitor, campsite and visitor experiences, especially if the weather is adverse.”
The fair, now in its 46th year, regularly attracts up to 200,000 visitors but the wet ground last year meant displays had to be cancelled as steam locomotives and other vehicles were unable to move around the site.
The decision to build a permanent internal road network on the 600-acre site was the result of lengthy meetings with the emergency services and local authorities.
It is hoped some of the new roads will be in place in time for this year’s show.
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