Portland Beach Road and Causeway Could Close as Storm Ingrid Brings Severe Weather
Residents and motorists are being warned of a potential overnight closure of the Portland Beach Road and Causeway as severe weather is forecast to hit Dorset on Friday.
Dorset Council, working alongside the Environment Agency and emergency services, has said the key route linking Portland to Weymouth may need to close between 8pm on Friday 23 January and 1am on Saturday 24 January due to the risk posed by Storm Ingrid. High winds, heavy rainfall and tidal conditions are expected to combine, increasing the likelihood of flooding and making travel unsafe.
As a precaution, temporary traffic lights currently in place on Ferry Bridge will be switched off during this period and are expected to remain off until Monday 26 January. The decision has been taken in response to predicted wind speeds and concerns around flooding risk.
Several areas on Portland have been identified as particularly vulnerable to flooding, including Chiswell on the A354, Brandy Row, Pebble Lane, Victoria Square up to the junction with Queens Road, as well as car parks along the A354 and a yard on Lerret Road.
Council teams are already on site monitoring road conditions, weather forecasts and local water levels. A further update on whether the closure will go ahead is expected on Friday.
According to forecasts, Storm Ingrid is likely to bring a dangerous mix of strong winds, heavy rain, spring tides and already elevated groundwater and river levels. Authorities have warned that waves may overtop flood defences around Chiswell, potentially leading to surface flooding and shingle being thrown onto the road and nearby properties.
If the road does close, Dorset Council says digital signage will be activated to alert residents and road users. People are being advised to check travel plans in advance and allow extra time for journeys.
The severe weather is also affecting ongoing repair works at Ferry Bridge. Contractors have confirmed that work will pause from Friday for safety reasons, with the temporary traffic lights already switched off on Thursday. A decision on whether works can safely resume will be made on Monday morning.
Residents are urged to stay alert for updates and follow advice from local authorities as weather conditions develop.
