Roadworks are set to change the A352 Ottery Lane and Westbury junction in Sherborne. Picture: Google

Warning to drivers over Sherborne roadworks – and changes to busy junction

Paul JonesSeptember 25, 20260 Comment0

DRIVERS and pedestrians are being warned of big changes coming to a busy Sherborne junction – with work starting next month.

Dorset Council said roadworks to alter and improve the A352 Ottery Lane and Westbury junction will take place in October, aiming to bring safer crossings and better traffic flow.

The layout of the junction will change, giving priority to vehicles travelling along the A352, and between the A352 and A30.

Improved crossing facilities for pedestrians and drainage upgrades to help address flooding issues in the area will also be part of the work.

The work will start on October 5 and will require temporary traffic signals while construction takes place, the council said, with overnight closures for resurfacing from October 26 to 31, with signed diversions in place.

“The improvements respond to longstanding requests from Sherborne Town Council and residents to review the current junction arrangement,” a council spokesperson said.

“The project will also help address concerns about crossing the road near the junction, particularly for children travelling between the town centre and sports facilities on Ottery Lane.

“Local concern has previously been raised that some children cross informally rather than using the existing pelican crossing on Horsecastles Lane, highlighting the need for more convenient crossing points closer to where people want to cross.”

Works at the A352 Ottery Lane and Westbury junction in Sherborne will include:

New and improved pedestrian crossing facilities
Alterations to street lighting
Drainage improvements to help alleviate flooding issues
Highway resurfacing

Cllr Jack Jeanes, Dorset Council cabinet member for place services, said: “These improvements respond to concerns that have been raised over many years about how traffic moves through this part of the town.

“The current layout does encourage through traffic to use Westbury and Acreman Street rather than staying on the A352 and A30.

“By changing the junction priority, we’re creating a clearer route for traffic while also making it easier and safer for people to cross the road close to where they need to.

“We’ve listened to local views to help shape the scheme. As well as improving traffic flow, we’re providing better crossing facilities, particularly for children travelling between the town centre and the sports facilities on Ottery Lane, and addressing local drainage issues.

“Thank you for your patience while we carry out the work. We appreciate that roadworks can be disruptive, but these improvements will deliver long-term benefits for residents, pedestrians and motorists using this important route through Sherborne.”