Twin Sails bridge set to reopen following repairs

A lifting bridge that has been closed to traffic since August is expected to reopen next month.

Twin Sails Bridge, which connects Poole with Hamworthy in Dorset, has been closed for repairs since engineers discovered "abnormal creaking" noises.

The work had been due to finish in December but manufacturing delays meant the bridge remained out of action longer than expected.

Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) said, subject to testing, the route would reopen on 2 February.

Environment councillor Andy Hadley said: "We'll be completing the remaining works on Twin Sails Bridge between 28 January and 1 February.

"During this time, the bridge will remain in the lowered position.

"Subject to successful completion of the repairs and adequate test lifts, the bridge will be re-opened to traffic and return to normal operation on 2 February.

"We would like to thank residents for their continued patience while we carry out these essential repairs."

In May 2024, the bridge remained out of action for almost three months after another fault was identified during scheduled checks.

In 2025, BCP councillors approved £6m of funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy to improve both Twin Sails Bridge and Poole Bridge.

The investment will focus on improving the lifting mechanism and addressing recurring reliability problems.