Junction improvements in Sherborne start Monday 5 October

Improvement work at the A352 Ottery Lane and Westbury junction in Sherborne will take place in October 2026 to support safer crossings and better traffic flow.

The scheme will alter the layout of the junction to give priority to vehicles travelling along the A352, and between the A352 and A30. It will also introduce improved crossing facilities for pedestrians and drainage upgrades to help address flooding issues in the area.

The work will start on 5 October 2026 and will require temporary traffic signals while construction takes place. There will be overnight closures for resurfacing from 26 to 31 October with signed diversions.

The improvements respond to longstanding requests from Sherborne Town Council and residents to review the current junction arrangement.

The project will also help address concerns about crossing the road near the junction, particularly for children travelling between the town centre and sports facilities on Ottery Lane. Local concern has previously been raised that some children cross informally rather than using the existing pelican crossing on Horsecastles Lane, highlighting the need for more convenient crossing points closer to where people want to cross.

Works will include:

• New and improved pedestrian crossing facilities
• Alterations to street lighting
• Drainage improvements to help alleviate flooding issues
• Highway resurfacing

See the drawing of the layout

Cllr Jack Jeanes, Dorset Council's Cabinet Member for Place Services, said:

"These improvements respond to concerns that have been raised over many years about how traffic moves through this part of the town.

"The current layout does encourage through traffic to use Westbury and Acreman Street rather than staying on the A352 and A30. By changing the junction priority, we're creating a clearer route for traffic while also making it easier and safer for people to cross the road close to where they need to."

"We've listened to local views to help shape the scheme. As well as improving traffic flow, we're providing better crossing facilities, particularly for children travelling between the town centre and the sports facilities on Ottery Lane, and addressing local drainage issues."

"Thank you for your patience while we carry out the work. We appreciate that roadworks can be disruptive, but these improvements will deliver long-term benefits for residents, pedestrians and motorists using this important route through Sherborne."