7:00pm Friday 19th December 2008
By Timothy John
CANFORD Bridge has reopened after a £3 million refurbishment programme.
A striking new footway, similar in appearance to London’s iconic Millennium Bridge, is one of the key features of the eight-month project.
The Victorian structure was reduced to single lane traffic in March, and closed to cars completely in June, before reopening under traffic light control at the end of October.
But yesterday the bridge was officially reopened by the mayors of Poole and Wimborne, Cllrs Joyce Lavender and Robin Cook.
Poole council’s transport chief, Cllr Mike White, said: “We are delighted to see the works completed ahead of schedule and have this major road fully re-opened in time for Christmas.”
Cyclists are among the groups who will benefit from the refurbishments. The new bridge links cycle routes between Merley and Wimborne.
A toucan crossing, which allows cyclists and pedestrians to cross together safely, has been installed at the foot of Oakley Hill.
Higher, wider railings have been installed for the added safety of those crossing the bridge by foot or on two wheels.
The Grade II listed structure was renovated as part of a £3.2 million engineering project jointly funded by Borough of Poole and Dorset County Council.
The county council’s transport boss, Col Geoffrey Brierley, said: “We are very pleased to see the bridge re-open ahead of schedule and thank local residents and traders for their patience.”
Builders will return to the bridge in January to install lighting on the footway and finish off minor jobs before clearing the site.
Stonework repairs under the river bridge will be completed next year.
The crossing will remain open during this time.
The bridge first opened to the public in 1813, and the flood arches date back to 1675.
A cantilevered footway was added in 1964.
The bridge links Poole and Wimborne, taking the B3073 Oakley Hill Road over the River Stour.
Borough of Poole and Dorset County Council share responsibility for maintenance of the bridge.
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