A 12-month programme to stabilise the slopes of Dinah’s Hollow on a stretch of the C13 road between Blandford and Shaftesbury will begin on Monday 5 January 2026.
Several landslips over the years have posed a serious threat to public safety, and as the highway authority, the Council has a legal duty to make the area safe.
Although large frequent collapses have not occurred, prolonged rainfall, changes in surface water run-off, vegetation condition and road undercutting could trigger a major collapse. The stabilisation scheme is a long-term solution using soil nail technologies and drainage to protect the C13 road from future landslips.
The work will require closing the Hollow for a year between the C13’s junction with Boundary Road (the road that runs in front of the Compton Abbas airfield) and its junction with the B3081. Diversions and safety measures will be in place to manage traffic locally and the additional vehicles on nearby roads.
Dorset is now working with ward councillors and parish councils in the affected areas to support safe and continued travel.
While planning the work, the Council says that it has taken care to protect the Hollow’s unique ecology and habitats, including its protected species. This safeguarding will continue, with all works conducted in consultation with ecologists and in line with environmental regulations.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services at Dorset Council, said:
“This is a vital safety project to protect everyone who uses the C13 and to make sure this route remains resilient for the future. We recognise these works will affect travel, so we have reviewed all options and developed a comprehensive package of traffic management measures.
“Local Dorset councillors, Jane Somper and Sherry Jespersen, have played an important role in this project for many years. They are a crucial link and we will continue to work with them and the parish councils as the project progresses.
“Protecting the unique wildlife and habitats in Dinah’s Hollow will also be our continued priority, and an ecologist will be on site for the duration of the stabilisation project to ensure everything is carried out responsibly.
“We appreciate the community’s continued patience and co-operation while we carry out these essential works.”
(Picture: Dorset County Council)
