A lift bridge on the Dorset coast has reopened after almost three months of repairs.
Poole’s Twin Sails bridge has been in a raised position since a fault was discovered during an inspection in mid-May.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said on Friday that no reopening date had been confirmed, but later announced that tests had been successful and traffic could use the bridge again.
It was said that the bridge would be monitored over the weekend and into next week.
Andy Hadley, minister for climate action, environment and energy, said reopening the bridge was “a priority”.
Our teams have worked hard and partnered with specialized contractors and manufacturers to complete these repairs.
“Over 20 test lifts took place today, which gives us confidence in the repairs.
“We continue to work on the long-term plan for the bridge, including identifying appropriate funding sources to return the bridge to full operation.”
Last week, the council said it expected the bridge to return to normal operation from August 12, provided testing procedures were successful.
However, a message to seafarers on Thursday said the council was “not yet ready” to resume routine operations.
A spokesman had previously added on Friday that there was no reason to believe there would be a delay, but an exact date for the reopening could not be confirmed.
The bridge, which opened in 2012, and the nearby Poole Bridge allow motorists to avoid a ten-kilometre detour and pass boats between Holes Bay and Poole Bay.
The Poole Bridge at Poole Quay, which is raised every hour at half past six, remains in operation.
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