WORKERS carrying out roadworks on a key Dorset road are facing “verbal abuse” from “plenty of obstructive and incredibly rude drivers” this week.

Resurfacing work began on Monday, November 16 to repair a 6,095-metre (3.7 mile) section of the A352 through the villages of Longburton and Holnest between Dorchester and Sherborne.

Dorset Council previously explained the road condition had "deteriorated" and work will be carried out in two phases.

The Travel Dorset service states the A-road will be closed in both directions between 9am and 4pm on weekdays until Friday, December 2. The road will be open during the evenings and at weekends.

But as the roadworks started this week, maintenance crews have been subjected to “verbal abuse and aggressive behaviour” from motorists in the area.

A spokesman for Dorset Council hit out at the “obstructive and incredibly rude drivers” and urged motorists to respect its workers during the duration of the roadworks.

He said on Tuesday afternoon: “A polite reminder for drivers using the A352 near Longburton – there is no through-access along the road.

“Day two and we’ve already had plenty of obstructive and incredibly rude drivers. Please respect our workforce. Verbal abuse and aggressive behaviour is #unacceptable.

“The road is being closed in sections (Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm) through the village while we resurface it.

“Any businesses in the area remaining open or offering a click-and-collect service during the current lockdown can still be accessed. You may need to park your car and walk a short distance to complete your visit.

“Current restrictions mean that you should be avoiding travel unless it is necessary. #DoYourBit for Dorset.”

The first eight days of repairs will take place in Longburton, starting at the northern end and working south. The road will be closed in sections, there will be no through-access for drivers.

The final four days of works will be south of the village, from the speed limit change down to Middlemarsh. There will be no through-access along the road and access will be maintained for residents and businesses throughout the works.

Dorset Council warns that any person who breaches the road closure could be convicted or face a fine not exceeding £1,000.

Travel Dorset has published the official diversion route around the road closure online, which will take approximately 55 minutes to follow the 36-mile route and take drivers across Dorset and into Somerset.

Alternatively, there are a number of shorter but unofficial routes that drivers can take to avoid the road closure. These not suitable for HGVs and should be avoided if using larger machinery.

Anyone with any concerns or wish to discuss any issues regarding the roadworks can contact Dorset Council online via http://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/roadworks/enquiries

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