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Seven new speed limit changes are set to come into effect across one popular route in March as part of a major road upgrade. National Highways is embarking on a new project to improve safety along the A35 in Dorset, with speed limits set to be cut in multiple locations.

The new rules will introduce 30mph, 40mph and 50mph speed restrictions at several points across the route, with locals and commuters set to be affected. The changes are coming into effect after National Highways identified safety issues along a 26-mile section of the A35 between Charmouth and Yellowham Hill. The road has seen a total of 199 collisions over five years, with the accidents leading to 305 casualties and three fatalities.

Jack Mason, National Highways' South West Road Safety Manager, said: "The initiative follows a long-term safety review and is part of our ongoing commitment to reduce the number of people harmed on the region's roads.

"The speed reductions and average speed cameras will reduce the number and severity of collisions between Charmouth and Yellowham, improving safety for motorists and local communities.

"As outlined in the consultation process, we'll continue to monitor the safety and performance of the route, and, working closely with our police and local authority partners, we will always look to make any future interventions where needed."

National Highways said the scheme is anticipated to be completed by the end of March. Officials have confirmed that the new speed restrictions will be enforceable with average speed cameras set to be installed across the route.

This means road users unaware of the changes could be at risk of picking up fines in a major blow from the Spring. The penalty for speeding is £100 while road users could also get three penalty points slapped onto their driving licence.

The changes are based on collision data, risk assessments, and insights into driver behaviour, ensuring the new speed limits reflect the characteristics and usage of the road.

• New 50mph limit - between Berne Lane and Tizard Knap
• New 50mph limit - between Coombe Road and Monkey's Jump Roundabout
• New 50mph limit - between West Stinsford Roundabout and the overbridge at Cuckoo Lane Junction
• New 40mph limit - extension between Tizzard's Knap Junction and Ryall (Star Lane)
• New 40mph limit - between Howard Road Junction and Firch Lane
• New 30mph limit - between Hollow Way junction and Howard Road junction
• New 50mph limit - between Long Bredy Hut Lane and Winterbourne Abbas