POOLE residents are being invited to comment on how they will be affected when Poole Bridge closes for nine months next September.

Businesses and residents are being asked by Borough of Poole what useful temporary measures could be put in place the help minimise disruption caused by the £4.2million rebuild of the approach spans.

The old lifting bridge will be closed to all road traffic, cyclists and pedestrians, however mariners will be largely unaffected as the bridge's lifting leaves will remain upright for most of the works.

The two approach spans carrying traffic onto and off the bridge form part of the original 1927 construction. Although they have always been maintained, parts of the concrete decks supporting the road and footpaths are worn out and need complete replacement.

“The condition of the approach spans is deteriorating to such an extent that they will soon be no longer fit for purpose, said John Rice, engineering manager.

"So to do nothing is not an option and will result in restricted access to the bridge, initially meaning that no heavy vehicles would be able to cross, reducing in time to only allow pedestrian and cycle access and ultimately followed by the complete closure of Poole Bridge. To demolish and replace the spans is a major project and this is reflected by the lengthy bridge closure."

He added: “We recognise that Poole Bridge being closed for nine months will cause significant inconvenience to people, especially those living and working in lower Hamworthy. It is really important for people to give us their views as it will help us plan ahead and shape the useful temporary measures that we can provide to help ease disruption.”

Council staff will be at Hamworthy Library, Blandford Road on Wednesday, October 21 from 1pm to 6.30pm to answer any questions and there is an online questionnaire (http://bit.ly/1PllnXO) available until November 11 with paper copies at the library, Tourist Information at Poole Museum and Poole Central Library.

Councillor Ian Potter, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation, Borough of Poole, said: “We are fully committed to ensuring Poole continues to benefit from a two-bridge system to safeguard the future economic growth and employment opportunities in Hamworthy."

- Daily Echo