THE leader of the Poole People party has said it is time for cabinet member Xena Dion to step aside following the furore over the Twin Sails Bridge.

Cllr Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for environment and the local economy, including transportation and tourism, came under fire after making an “unfortunate” remark at full council last week.

In a debate over the just under 100 outstanding defects currently afflicting the troubled Twin Sails Bridge, Cllr Dion said: “If I had bought this bridge I think I would have taken it back by now.”

She later said it was a flippant remark that should not have been made in a public forum and was an “expression of frustration” at the continuing problems with the £21.6million lifting bridge.

Cllr Mark Howell, leader of the four member Poole People said he believed Cllr Dion should go.

“We feel she’s not handling the issues as they should be handed,” he said.

“If asked the question: ‘Do I want her to go?’ I would say she’s been making mistakes and, not wishing to be personal about it, the record speaks for itself.”

Cllr Elaine Atkinson, leader of the Borough of Poole, said: “Although Cllr Dion made an unfortunate comment, for which she has apologised, I have full confidence in her abilities as a councillor and a cabinet portfolio holder.

“Having said that I am reviewing the content of the portfolios over the coming weeks and I will announce any changes to the cabinet and cabinet work streams at the full council meeting on May 15.”

Cllr Howell said his party was in favour of a consensus administration and called on Cllr Atkinson to “use the talents of all people in all parties”.

The Daily Echo was unable to contact Cllr Dion.