Lifting bridge reopening delayed for more repairs

The bridge and nearby Poole Bridge allow drivers to avoid a six-mile detour

A lifting bridge that has been in the raised position, preventing traffic and pedestrians crossing since mid-May, will not be fixed this month as hoped.

Poole's Twin Sails bridge across Holes Bay links the town centre with Hamworthy.

BCP Council said: "We were on schedule to open again this month but it is now clear that further repairs are required."

The authority said its teams were working "around the clock" to get the bridge working again.

The £37m bridge opened in 2012

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, said: "None of us want the Twin Sails out of use any longer than is necessary.

"Our teams have been working around the clock to try and get the bridge operational again as soon as possible.

"I thank the residents of Poole and Hamworthy for their continued patience during these works.

"We understand the impact this is having on our area and we apologise."

Poole Bridge at Poole Quay is still in use

The bridge and nearby Poole Bridge allow drivers to avoid a six-mile detour and enables boats to pass between Holes Bay and Poole Bay.

Poole Bridge at Poole Quay, which lifts hourly at half past the hour, is still in use.

The Twin Sails bridge will remain in the raised position and open to marine traffic while the work continues.