POOLE'S Twin Sails Bridge has re-opened after an "unexpected technical problem" was discovered during routine maintenance overnight.

The bridge was due to re-open to traffic in time for the rush-hour on Thursday morning but engineers encountered problems which meant it was only re-opened this afternoon.

A spokesperson for Borough of Poole said:  "Following an unexpected technical problem with the Twin Sails Bridge we have carried out several successful test lifts of the bridge and can confirm we reopened the bridge to road traffic at approximately 2pm this afternoon.

"We would like to thank everyone for their patience while these issues were resolved."

Julian McLaughlin, head of transportation services, Borough of Poole, said earlier: “The unexpected technical problem experienced during last night's maintenance works is more complex than originally thought. 

“We are currently working to reopen the bridge at the earliest opportunity. However, in the meantime, the Twin Sails Bridge will remain closed to road traffic. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”