Road partially reopens after hotel ceiling collapse

A road that was closed due to structural damage at a hotel has partially reopened.

The Bear Hotel in Wareham, Dorset, was evacuated on Sunday when part of the ceiling and masonry came down in one of its bedrooms, leading to fears of further collapse.

South Street was closed to traffic while structural engineers made the scene safe with scaffolding and barriers.

One lane of the road opened on Wednesday afternoon with temporary traffic lights. The pavement opposite the hotel also reopened.

Part of South Street and nearby pedestrian access routes were closed as a precaution.

The room was unoccupied at the time and there were no reports of injuries.

Some neighbouring shops and businesses remained closed on Monday but reopened on Tuesday.

A statement from the Bear said: "We are truly grateful for the patience and support shown by our neighbours, guests and the community, and we thank Dorset Council and everyone on site for their hard work."

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: "We are pleased to report that South Street opposite the Bear has now partially reopened to one lane.

"The building's owners have appointed contractors to oversee the necessary repairs to the building.

"We would like to thank people for their patience while we had to close the road to ensure everyone's safety."

Contractors Stuart Randall Construction said it would begin internal structural works on Thursday while scaffolding works continued on the outside of the building.

The Grade II* listed former coaching inn, known locally for the life-size stone bear on top the entrance portico, was built in 1852.