BOTH lifting bridges in Poole are due to close for work this week – but council chiefs insist there will be no overlap.

More work is required on Twin Sails Bridge just weeks after engineers finally removed a second pin as part of the on-going project to rectify an underlying issue.

BCP Council’s review of the bridge still rumbles on but work, which the council has not given details on, is required this week, starting tomorrow.

This is due to last up to three days, according to the councillor responsible for highways, ahead of resurfacing work in West Quay Road, which will require a closure of Poole Bridge to motor vehicles for two days.

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said the “intention” is the Poole Bridge work will go ahead immediately after the reopening of Twin Sails.

“On April 9, we took the decision to close Twin Sails Bridge and proceed with the next stage of repairs as soon as possible to prevent any further faults developing,” said Cllr Hadley. “Despite the additional challenges presented by Covid-19, initial works to replace the second pin began on Monday, May 4. This part of the repairs was carried out successfully and the second pin has now been removed.

“Further works which require the bridge to be kept in the upright position are now planned for May 26 and will last for up to three days. Once completed, we will then be able to fully reopen the bridge. Long term repairs are still required and the review to rectify the issues with the bridge continues.

“Planned surfacing works on West Quay Road are also taking place over two days. The intention is this will go ahead immediately after the reopening of Twin Sails. Poole Bridge will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists throughout the West Quay works with other road users directed over Twin Sails.”

As reported, the council is months into a review of Twin Sails following a spate of engineering issues in recent years.

Cllr Hadley added: “It is essential that these works go ahead at this time whilst many people are still working from home. With more network users expected in the coming weeks, any further delay would lead to increased disruption, which we are keen to avoid.’’