COUNCIL officials still do not know how safety gates on Poole Bridge came to be damaged, forcing its closure on Sunday.

Engineers are currently investigating the problem but could not confirm when the recently-renovated bridge would be open for motorists again.

It has been just over two months since the crossing re-opened following the fiasco of its 16-month closure for refurbishment. The project was characterised by a series of setbacks, and the bridge’s re-opening was pushed back seven times.

John Rice, engineering manager for Poole council, declined an interview with the Daily Echo to discuss the latest issue with the bridge.

However, in a statement issued by the council on his behalf, he said: “All efforts are being made to investigate and identify the reasons behind the damage to the safety gates with a view to bringing the bridge back into operation as soon as possible.

“In the meantime, the bridge will remain closed to road traffic only with pedestrian and cycle paths remaining open for use. Usual lifting times are currently in operation. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and we’d like to assure residents that we’re working hard to bring the bridge back into use.

“We would encourage road users to seek alternative routes such as the Twin Sails Bridge, which is operating as normal.”

Since Monday, the Echo has also tried to speak to Councillor Ian Potter, whose portfolio responsibility is transportation, but he appears to have gone AWOL - again.

Bill Constance, chair of Poole Quays Forum, said the bridge’s closure was “adding to the pain and misery of people who suffered for 16 months”.

“I just feel sorry for people living in Lower Hamworthy and also the commuters who have to use the crossing. Somebody needs to sort the problem out quickly and let people know what it is.”

Poole Town councillor Andy Hadley said the disruption to residents was “really unfortunate”.

“The cause is being investigated, and also whether a temporary fix can get the bridge open again more quickly than awaiting new parts.”

He added: “Pedestrians and cyclists can still get over this way, and at least the resurfacing work on major routes is now complete, though there are roadworks associated with the Townside gyratory scheme.”