FOOTWAYS in an area of Canford Heath will be closed to pedestrians over the coming weeks as Wessex Water completes an emergency repair on a damaged sewer.

Diversion routes will be in place while the company carries out the work on an area just off Steeple Close in the south-west section of the heath, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

An area of track heading north from Steeple Close, known locally as Red Brick Lane, closed to the public for 12 weeks on Monday, April 4, with access being maintained for emergency vehicles.

An adjacent track, just to the west of Westham Close, will also be closed for two weeks April 11.

Diversions for pedestrians will be in place to the west and north of the work ensuring access to the remainder of the heath remains in place throughout.

A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “This is an extensive and complex repair that we recognise will cause a significant impact for people who use the various routes across the heath, but it is absolutely necessary to ensure the sewer can be repaired and prevent any potential pollution occurring.

“The repair is complex due to the location of an existing gas main in the ground and the need to maintain access for emergency services. We have been working closely with BCP Council and other partners to ensure we have a programme that ensures its can be carried out safely and sensitively to the local area.”