Lifting bridge reopens after three-month repairs

Poole's Twin Sails bridge was fixed in the raised position after a fault was found in mid-May

A lifting bridge on the Dorset coast has reopened after repair work lasting almost three months.

Poole's Twin Sails bridge had been in the raised position since a fault was found during an inspection in mid-May.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said on Friday no date had been confirmed for its reopening but later announced testing had been successful and traffic would be able to use the bridge.

It said the bridge would be monitored over the weekend and into next week.

Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, said reopening the bridge had been "a priority".

Our teams have worked hard and engaged with specialist contractors and manufacturers to get these repairs complete.

“There have been over 20 test lifts today, giving us confidence in the repairs.

“We continue to work on the long-term plan for the bridge, including identifying suitable funding sources to restore the bridge to full service."

Last week, the council said it expected the bridge would operate on its regular schedule from 12 August if testing procedures were successful.

But in a notice to mariners on Thursday, the council said it was "not yet ready" to return to routine service.

Earlier on Friday, a spokesperson added there was no reason to suspect a delay but an exact reopening date could not be confirmed.

The bridge, which opened in 2012, and nearby Poole Bridge allow drivers to avoid a six-mile detour and enable boats to pass between Holes Bay and Poole Bay.

Poole Bridge at Poole Quay, which lifts hourly at half past the hour, has remained in use.