STRENGTHENING work to the Pixie Cottage retaining wall began on Monday, and the B3263 road between Penpethy and Trewarmett, near Tintagel will be closed between now and March 28, 2009. The road will be re-opened for Christmas between December 19 and January 4, 2009.

The timing of works have been scheduled to minimise their impact on local businesses and ­residents.

The retaining wall ­supporting the carriageway at this narrow section of the highway is in need of reconstruction and maintenance works to ensure the safety of road users. The works will involve the ­construction of a mass ­concrete retaining structure, behind the existing wall facing, with a ­reinforced top section which will support a new 80m long mortared ­masonry parapet wall.

A signed diversion route will be put in place. From the eastern end of the ­closure the route will direct traffic travelling North on the B3266 towards Boscastle and then ­westward towards the town of Tintagel. This is the ­preferred diversion as the route is salted over the winter period and is also suitable for HGV traffic.

Cornwall County Council's contractor ­CORMAC will be carrying out the works and will endeavour to minimise ­disruption to local ­residents and road users during this period.