Drivers using the A35 around Dorchester should prepare before setting off this Thursday evening. National Highways lists the Dorchester Bypass as closed in both directions overnight from 8pm to 6am on weeknights between 10 and 15 August 2026. The work is part of a wider A30 and A35 maintenance programme covering resurfacing, sign replacement and vegetation clearance.
What tonight’s A35 closure means
The overnight restriction affects the Dorchester Bypass in both directions. If your journey normally crosses Dorchester on the A35 after 8pm, allow additional time and expect to leave the main route. National Highways says signed diversions will be in place and specifically advises drivers to follow the signed route rather than satnav instructions.
That distinction matters at night. A navigation app may choose a shorter local road that is unsuitable, narrow or already carrying extra traffic. Set your destination before moving, but treat official roadside signs as the primary instruction when you reach the closure. Avoid stopping suddenly to change a route, and never make a late turn after passing a diversion sign.
Check the latest information before departure
Planned closures can change at short notice because of weather, site conditions or operational needs. Check the National Highways daily closures page and current travel information shortly before leaving, even if you reviewed the plan earlier in the day. If you are collecting someone, delivering goods or attending an appointment, share a realistic arrival window rather than planning around the normal travel time.
Consider whether the journey can be completed before 8pm or moved to daylight. If travel during the closure is necessary, add time for the signed diversion and a rest break. Make sure your phone is charged, download essential journey details and keep important contact numbers available without needing to search while driving.
Prepare the car for a longer night journey
A five-minute vehicle check can reduce avoidable problems on an unfamiliar route. Confirm that fuel or battery range comfortably covers the diversion. Check tyre condition and pressures, lights, washer fluid and windscreen visibility. Clean mirrors and camera lenses, and ensure that glasses or prescription driving lenses are easy to reach.
Pack drinking water, a charging cable and any medication needed during the journey. Keep a torch, high-visibility vest and warning triangle in a known, accessible place. A compact roadside kit should not be buried beneath luggage, because opening and unloading a boot beside a road can increase exposure to traffic.
Practical JUFO recommendation
The JUFO 3-in-1 Roadside Breakdown Kit is £17.95 and combines a high-visibility vest, warning triangle and 2-in-1 emergency tool in one compact package. It is a practical addition for overnight diversions, motorway preparation and unexpected roadside waits.
If the vehicle develops a problem
If you experience a fault, move to a safer location only when it is possible to do so without increasing risk. Switch on hazard lights, follow official signs and contact the appropriate breakdown service. Do not attempt repairs in a live lane or stand where passing traffic cannot see you. On high-speed roads, follow current official motorway and roadside safety guidance.
When travelling with children, an older passenger or a pet, plan comfort stops before the route becomes busy. Tell passengers where the emergency kit is stored, but keep the driver focused on signs and changing conditions.
One final check before 8pm
Before leaving, confirm the closure status, note the start time and make sure everyone understands that the signed diversion takes priority over the quickest route suggested by an app. The official source is the National Highways South West maintenance schemes page, which also links to daily closures and live travel updates.
A calm plan is more useful than a rushed shortcut. Leave with adequate range, clear visibility and a reachable emergency kit, then follow the signed route throughout the A35 diversion.
