Poole's Twin Sails Bridge opens to traffic

Dorset's long-awaited Twin Sails Bridge has opened to traffic after more than a month of delays.

The new lifting bridge, linking Poole Harbour with Hamworthy, was originally due to open at the end of February.

Emergency repairs were needed when parts of the road surface fell away as the structure was raised.

Borough of Poole council leader Elaine Atkinson said: "Projects of this nature will inevitably experience minor issues."

'Fantastic day'

Head of transportation services Julian McLaughlin said: "The resurfacing work was carried out successfully last week and the road markings have been re-laid.

Ms Atkinson said: "This really is a fantastic day for Poole. The Twin Sails Bridge provides a much-needed second harbour crossing and unlocks large regeneration sites for the town.

"We are pleased that we have been able to complete the construction of the Twin Sails Bridge within two years, which was always our target."

A celebration day and visit from the Princess Royal went ahead as planned last month while Dorset residents were given the chance to walk across it on 25 February.