POOLE Lifting Bridge will be closed to all traffic for a week for "essential annual maintenance". 

The closure will be in force between Sunday, April 3 and Sunday, April 10. 

Julian Mclaughlin, director of transport and engineering at BCP Council, said: “We will be carrying out essential annual maintenance works to Poole Lifting Bridge over the next week.

"These works are required each year and are needed to keep the bridge in full operational condition for our residents, especially those living in or commuting between Hamworthy and Poole town.”

The bridge will be closed to all traffic as well as cyclists and pedestrians to allow the work to be carried out “safely and efficiently”. 

A signed diversion will be in place and motorists have been advised to allow extra time when travelling.

Mr Mclaughlin added: “I advise you to allow extra time for your journeys during this period and make use of the signed diversion route via the Twin Sails Bridge.

"We’ve made sure to programme them in now so that both bridges are in operation in time for the Easter break.”

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