Temporary traffic lights are being installed on a historical road bridge to determine whether a new footbridge is needed to protect pedestrians.

Julian’s Bridge in Wimborne will have signal-controlled, one-way traffic for six weeks from Tuesday while Dorset Council trials a temporary footway on part of the road, as reported by Highways News earlier this month,

The BBC has reported that delays are expected between Lake Gates roundabout and Wimborne, with the trial timed to coincide with Wimborne Folk Festival to test the impact during peak times.

Local councillor Andy Todd urged drivers to “trust the process”, saying the exercise could help justify plans for a separate pedestrian bridge over the River Stour.

The 17th-century, Grade I listed bridge is not wide enough for a footpath, meaning people crossing the river have to share the road with traffic.

Dorset Council said there had been 12 incidents of vehicles crashing into the bridge parapets in the past 25 years and at least five injury crashes in the past five years.

The trial will test whether reducing the bridge to one-way traffic can create space for a footpath and improve safety.

(Picture: Dorset Council)