STABILISATION work near a Grade II listed bridge will soon begin. 

Both east and west walls supporting the road approaching Kings Mill Bridge over the River Stour in Marnhull, north Dorset, were moving, Dorset Council said. 

This was causing the carriageway to sink, a potential danger for users of this key link road in the area. 

Following surveys, the team is working with Ringwood-based Steel Piling Solutions to install 93 sheets of steel piling, between seven and 12 metres long, to support the road edge that had been moving for some time. 

Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for place services said: “Our bridges and structures team consistently demonstrate their dedication to maintaining our local infrastructure, much of which is centuries old. 

“This is a challenging job, due to the density of the clay which characterises the geology of the local area. 

“Despite deteriorating weather conditions, including the recent Storm Bert, the team is progressing well. Drawing on their own skill, together with the expertise of local steel piling specialists they are once again delivering complex work to preserve one of our many important structures in Dorset.” 

The work is due to be completed by mid-December. 

Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset, said: “This is a main road in North Dorset and it certainly required repair.  

“The site is very constrained and the weather and issues with thick clay hasn’t helped; however, it was wonderful to meet the team working on it.   

“I have to say the best, most engaging and committed group I have met in a long time. Their professionalism and expertise shone through. I was delighted to be able to thank them for all they are doing to keep our local roads usable and safe.”