Major stabilisation scheme at Dinah's Hollow moves into final months

The safety scheme to secure the future of Dinah's Hollow and prevent landslips is entering its final phase, with work on track for completion by the end of 2026.

The project on the C13 near Melbury Abbas will provide a long-term solution to slope instability that has affected the route for many years. Once complete, it will help keep this important road link open, safe and reliable for residents, businesses and visitors.

Dinah's Hollow is a steep-sided section of road where unstable slopes have caused repeated landslips. The scheme is strengthening the slopes, improving drainage and reducing the risk of future failures.

Since January 2026, nearly 1,500 soil nails, some 9 metres long, have been installed. Wire mesh, known as high-tensile mesh, has been fitted to support the slopes while allowing vegetation to grow through. Major drainage improvements are also being made.

The remaining work includes completing the drainage, new kerbs, road surfacing and landscaping. Additional boxes for bats and birds will be installed this autumn.

More trees have been retained than originally expected and where they have been removed, light is already encouraging new plant growth.

Additionally, a bespoke mix of native seeds will be sown to enhance biodiversity and support wildlife in the area.

Protecting the area's wildlife and ecology has remained a key consideration throughout the project. Specialist ecologists are working alongside engineers to safeguard protected species that live in and around the hollow.

Detailed ecological surveys were completed before work began, and activities have been carefully timed around the needs of protected wildlife, including bats and hazel dormice. Additional habitat measures, including bat boxes and ongoing monitoring, have helped minimise impacts. This careful approach has shaped the construction programme and reflects Dorset Council's commitment to protecting nature while delivering vital infrastructure improvements.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said: "Dinah's Hollow has been a long-standing concern, so it's great to see the project making such strong progress.

"This is a complex engineering scheme, but the goal is simple: to provide a lasting solution that keeps people safe and communities connected, protects an important transport link and supports the local economy.

“The team has worked hard to make sure the project respects the unique environment of Dinah's Hollow. By working closely with ecologists throughout the scheme, we've been able to improve the road's safety while protecting the wildlife and habitats that shape this important landscape.

“I would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their continued patience. The scheme remains on track for completion by the end of 2026, delivering a safer, more resilient route for future generations."

Listen to Nick talking about the project's progress.

Local MP Simon Hoare and local ward councillor Jane Somper, recently visited the site with Cllr Ireland for a progress update. 

Simon Hoare MP said: “I am really pleased that Dorset Council took on this project and is now bringing it through to fruition. I am staggered by how many mature trees they have been able to retain. It has been done sensitively and, for those who were concerned, growth is already coming through.

“This is now a permanent fix to a long-term problem, which will be good news for residents and for businesses in north Dorset.

“I am really grateful to see this investment in the road infrastructure of north Dorset, because this is such an important part of our road network.”

Cllr Somper said: “It’s been great to see the progress being made and the number of trees retained. The quality and pace of the work are really encouraging, and after seeing how much has been achieved since my last visit, I’m pleased the project remains on track for completion on time.”

Read more about the project and its background.