News

Poole bridge is now open to traffic following its recent closure for repainting and repairing works. With re-opening originally scheduled for midnight 6 July, the bridge was opened earlier than planned on Tuesday 1 July (00:01hrs Wednesday 2 July).

Helen Rice, Senior Civil Engineer, Transportation Services, Borough of Poole, said: "We are pleased to be opening the bridge ahead of schedule. The early completion has been achieved through the good weather and the co-operation of the contractor in concentrating on the top half of the structure whenever possible. We would wish to thank the public for their patience and understanding during this difficult time."

Bus services have reverted to their original summertime schedule from first thing on Wednesday morning. Works will continue on the footways and the underside of the structure until 25 July when all works to the bridge are due to be completed.

Councillor Ron Parker, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Local Economy, said: "It is great to see Poole lifting bridge back in action so soon. Our thanks go to residents and local people for their patience during this time. We recognise that these works cause disruption and endeavour to manage the situation as effectively as possible."

During the works, the footpaths across the bridge were found to be in need of repair and works on the footpath will continue. The downstream footway opened to pedestrians on Wednesday 2 July but the upstream footway will be closed while works continue until it is safe for pedestrians to use it. When the upstream footway is completed the downstream footway will then be taken out of action for works to be done.