LESSONS need to be learnt.

That’s the message from Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce to Dorset County Council over proposed repairs to Waterloo Bridge on Bridge Street.

The work, which would close one of the main routes into the town for eight weeks, is being carried out to halt the damage caused to the bridge’s stonework.

Engineers will construct a concrete slab and waterproofing layer over the bridge to stop the problem worsening, with work scheduled to start on September 12.

Last year, Bridge Street, including Waterloo Bridge, was closed for more than six weeks due to main gas replacement work and investigative work by the council, causing disruption and loss of trade for many traders.

Terry Atkinson, general secretary of the Christchurch Chamber of Trade said: “Unfortunately the work has to be done and we are working as hard as we can with Dorset County Council to alleviate some of the disruption likely to be caused.

“It’s unavoidable one end of the town will be more affected by this road closure but at the moment it is hard to tell the extent of the impact this will have.

“However, we know that due to the nature of the work, it has to be carried out when it is warm.”

He added: “There’s not a lot we can do, except learn from the mistakes that were made last time.

“We need diversion signage and notices saying that the businesses are open as usual.”

Dorset County Council will be holding a public meeting on Monday at the Regent Centre in Christchurch.

Doors will open at 6pm, with a brief presentation to be given at 7pm.