Likely Closure of Portland Beach Road & Causeway – Friday 23 January

Likely Closure of Portland Beach Road & Causeway – Friday 23 January

Friday 23 January 2026, 8pm – approx. 2am (Saturday 24 January)

Due to expected severe weather, it is highly likely that Portland Beach Road and the Causeway (A354) — the main route between Portland and Weymouth — will be closed overnight on Friday 23 January.

Dorset Council, the Environment Agency and emergency services are closely monitoring conditions on site. The road will only close if necessary and will reopen as soon as it is safe and clear of debris.

⸻

🌊 Why a closure is likely

Forecasts for Storm Ingrid show a dangerous combination of:

• Strong winds

• Heavy rainfall

• Spring tides

This significantly increases the risk of flooding and waves overtopping the beach, particularly along the Causeway and around Chiswell.

⸻

📍 Areas most at risk

Residents and road users should avoid:

• A354 Chiswell

• Brandy Row

• Pebble Lane

• Victoria Square (up to Queens Road junction)

• Car parks along the A354

• Yard along Lerret Road

There is a risk of surface flooding and debris in these areas.

⸻

🚧 Ferrybridge works update

• Temporary traffic lights at Ferrybridge will be switched off due to high winds

• Lights will remain off until Monday 26 January

• Repair works are paused for safety and will only resume if conditions allow

⸻

🚨 What you should do

• Avoid coastal roads, cliffs and shorelines across Dorset

• Make alternative travel plans if travelling between Portland and Weymouth

• Avoid roads leading to the Causeway during the likely closure window

• Residents near Chiswell should prepare for possible flooding and debris

Environment Agency advice:

• Follow your personal flood plan if you have one

• Use guidance on what to do before or during a flood

⸻

🔔 Stay updated

Further updates will be shared via:

• Dorset Council digital road signage

• The Dorset Council website