Roads, car parks and tips shut as Ironman returns

A popular triathlon race is returning to Dorset for its 10th year, with residents warned of road, car park and household tip closures.

Ironman 70.3 Weymouth takes place on Sunday with competitors swimming 1.2 miles in Weymouth Bay, followed by a 56-mile bike ride to King's Stag via Puddletown and Dorchester, and a 13.1 mile run on Weymouth seafront.

This year it will also include the first Ironkids event, with children aged three to 15 running between 500m and 1.5km near the Pavilion, finishing on the red carpet.

Dorset Council said, to prevent confusion for drivers, diversions for road closures would not be signposted.

A council spokesperson said: "There are so many different diversion scenarios, that it would be confusing to recommend alternative routes. Therefore, diversions will not be suggested or signed.

"It is not a mandatory requirement to provide signed diversions.

"Residents directly affected by closures may wish to move their vehicles before restrictions come into force, or delay journeys until roads reopen."

Weymouth household recycling centre will also be closed all day on Sunday and Dorchester tip at Louds Mill will be closed from 09:00 until 14:00.

Pavilion main car park is closed, reopening until Tuesday afternoon, Pavilion forecourt and Lodmoor main car parks are closed until Monday afternoon and evening, while Beach car park will be closed from 04:00 to 18:00 on Sunday.

The Swannery and other car parks are unaffected.

Dorset Council said its highways team and event marshals would be positioned at key locations.

A live closures map is available on the Ironman website.

Dorset Council deputy leader Richard Biggs said: "This event has become a highlight of our sporting calendar.

"Each year it attracts thousands of athletes and supporters to our county, generating significant economic benefits."

Biggs thanked residents, businesses, volunteers and organisations for their support and co-operation.