Fontmell Magna 20mph Speed Limit

Published: 10 December 2025

A350 Speed Limit Update: What’s Happening in 2026

Dorset Council has confirmed that the speed limit on the A350 through Fontmell Magna will be temporarily reduced to 20mph in 2026. This will coincide with the 12-month closure of the C13 for major works at Dinah’s Hollow, which is expected to divert significant additional traffic through our village and other communities on the A350. The temporary limit is intended to help reduce collision and blockage risks during this period.

However, Dorset Council has also advised that Fontmell Magna Parish Council’s application for a permanent 20mph limit on the A350 is unlikely to pass the assessment panel in February 2026. While some side roads meet the criteria for reduced limits, others including St Andrews View, Parsonage Street, and Sutton View are excluded by Dorset Council. This position appears to be linked to its refusal to support a permanent reduction on the A350 itself.

The Parish Council’s Road Safety Group (RSG) is challenging this selective approach. The RSG believes Dorset Council is stepping back from earlier assurances and is encouraging continued heavy and long-distance traffic on the A350 between Shaftesbury and Blandford. We argue that this is contrary to national guidance and National Highways’ position and plans. (The M4–Dorset coast strategic route completely avoids the A350 south of Warminster because the road is not fit for purpose and too costly to improve).

We remain concerned that Dorset Council’s stance increases the safety risk for residents walking, wheeling or crossing the A350 (and excluded side roads), especially where no footways exist. The RSG continues to push for clear explanations and a permanent solution that will improve road safety, better connect the village and reduce the social isolation caused by fast through-traffic.

Have Your Say

If you’d like to raise your concerns, please write to Dorset Council’s Cllr Jon Andrews at cllrjon.andrews@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

For more information, please contact the Road Safety Group:

John Adlam – johnwilliamadlam@gmail.com

Peter Mole – peter.mole@btinternet.com

We welcome your questions and feedback.