From Monday, 12 January, to April 2026, we will be upgrading equipment, crossings and the junction at the Damers Road end of Williams Avenue, Dorchester.
This busy route is used daily by pupils attending Damers First School, Dorchester Middle School and The Thomas Hardye School. Local children, families and carers have been calling for safer crossings and better cycle links to the schools for many years.
Work will include upgraded, more responsive signals; new, better crossings; a wider footway on the south side of Damers Road to provide a cycle link to Alexandra Road; and cycle lanes on Williams Avenue leading to the junction.
These changes will create a safer, traffic-free route between the town centre and Poundbury, helping children avoid busy roads.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services, Dorset Council, said:
“This is a long-awaited improvement, especially for pupils travelling to nearby schools.
“The new route will link the town centre with key destinations in west Dorchester, including schools, the leisure centre and Poundbury. Without it, children cycling to school would have to use the main road, which carries high levels of traffic.
“Our officers recently visited Damers First School and heard firsthand from the Eco Club about the challenges of getting to school safely. The school has campaigned for this for years, so I’m delighted we’re delivering a safer route for children.
“Thank you to road users for your continued patience as we work to make Dorchester’s roads safer for all.”
This work will complete the junction improvement and traffic signal upgrade programme for both ends of Williams Avenue, at Bridport Road and Damers Road.
Traffic management during construction
Due to the nature of these works, traffic management required to keep the crew, motorists and pedestrians safe. If possible, please allow extra time for your journey through the junction, especially at peak times.
Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the work, with a safe route provided. Due to the temporary configuration of the lights, this may mean longer waiting times for pedestrians.
For up to 4 weeks from 12 January, there will be a one-way eastbound closure from Williams Avenue towards the Great Western Road junction. Vehicles will have access in the westbound (hospital) direction.
From 9 February to 17 April, there will be 3-way lights at the Williams Avenue/Damers Road junction.
Blue light vehicles will always be given access through the closure, if safe to do so.
Because of the configuration of the signals, there will be a parking suspension along Damers Road. Local residents are aware of this and, as we progress, the suspension will be reduced.
As always, we thank everyone for their patience and understanding.
Find out more about the schemes to improve both ends of Williams Avenue here: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/williams-avenue
