HOCHTIEF UK refused to comment on the latest problem with the bridge when contacted by the Daily Echo.

Hochtief is one of the leading international groups of construction-related services, employing 66,000 people across the world‘s major markets. Hochtief UK Construction’s website says it is “renowned for engineering excellence and innovative solutions” and specialises in transportation, energy, marine works, tunnelling, building and civil and structural engineering.

Meanwhile, bridge operators are still being trained how to use the Twin Sails’ system.

A good training session had been held over the weekend, but more was still needed, Mr Bright said.

Both the old and new bridges can be controlled from a control room or the town hall.

The scheme’s completion has also been delayed over the warranty agreement on the shock absorber in the lifting gear.

Meetings would be held this week, Mr Bright said.

“It’s like seeing a scratch on a car you’re buying and saying you’re not having it until the scratch is repaired,” he added.

“When you look at the structure as a whole, in relative terms this is a small matter.”