Dinah’s Hollow Project Stakeholder Update – March 2026
Published: 13 April 2026
Dinah’s Hollow Project – Stakeholder Update (March 2026)
Summary
Since the February update, the project has moved from a largely preparatory phase into active delivery. Drainage works are now progressing well, with further elements such as fencing, haul road construction and soil nailing about to begin. The March update places greater emphasis on site safety, including concerns around unauthorised access, and provides reassurance on recent issues such as water pollution (with no concerns identified by the Environment Agency) and a quickly resolved utility strike. Traffic management updates are more focused on compliance and enforcement, alongside planned communications to address unsafe driving. In contrast to February’s more detailed and explanatory approach, the latest update reflects implementation on the ground, with confirmed measures such as 20mph limits and bollard installation now in place.
Progress of Works
Drainage operations are now advancing at a good pace following an improvement in weather conditions.
Additional vegetation clearance is scheduled to commence in April. Prior to this, ecological surveys will be carried out to check for the presence of bats and dormice. In accordance with the Natural England licence, further clearance will only proceed once it has been confirmed that any protected species have safely relocated.
Fencing installation and the creation of a haul road are expected to begin shortly.
Soil nailing works are planned to start next month. These activities are not anticipated to cause significant disturbance to nearby residents; however, acoustic monitoring will be undertaken on site as a precaution.
Concerns raised locally regarding potential water pollution have been investigated by the Environment Agency, which has confirmed that no issues have been identified.
On Monday 16 March, a BT fibre optic cable was inadvertently damaged. Repairs were completed the same day and internet services were promptly restored.
Site Safety
Construction safety remains a top priority. There have been several instances of unauthorised access through the designated works area, which is a cause for concern.
All fenced-off areas are strictly for construction use and must not be entered by the public.
All personnel working on site have completed a safety induction and are required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including high-visibility clothing, hard hats and steel toe-capped boots. In addition, all workers hold valid Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, demonstrating their training, qualifications and understanding of health and safety requirements.
From April, the main phase of construction will begin, involving larger machinery and increased site activity. For safety reasons, the public is strongly advised to keep out of all restricted areas.
C13 / Melbury Abbas Temporary Traffic Management
There continue to be reports of some motorists, believed to be repeat offenders, disregarding the one-way system. Enforcement of this measure falls under police responsibility, as site staff do not have legal authority to intervene.
To help address ongoing issues such as rat-running and unsafe driving, targeted messaging was shared via council social media channels over the Easter holiday period.
A350 Signage, Speed Restrictions and Temporary Signals
A temporary 20mph speed limit has now been introduced on several side roads connecting to the A350. This has reduced the amount of signage at junctions and improved visibility for road users.
Additionally, bollards have been installed along Mill Street to prevent vehicles from mounting and damaging the verge.
I am aware of a growing number of residents who question the efficacy of the 20mph and traffic lights along the route and I shall be discussing this with officers at our next meeting in April. It is important to find a balance between safety and overreach!