REMEDIAL work on the deteriorating Waterloo Bridge in Christchurch is due in September, sparking concern from traders over the potential effect on businesses.

Permanent repairs are needed on the bridge, which provides one of the main routes into the town, despite it being closed for two months in September last year for repairs and resurfacing.

Various large holes have appeared on the surface of the bridge recently, and despite being temporarily patched by Dorset County Council in time for the Olympic torch relay, more have appeared, with some parts of the surface looking like it is splitting.

After various tests and analysis, engineers say work will take place in September, once the main tourist season is over.

A spokesman for Dorset County Council, who is responsible for highways in Christchurch, said they know the road has to be resurfaced but are as yet unsure when the work will take place or how long it will take.

It is anticipated the road will need to be closed or partly closed during this time.

Peter Watson-Lee, president of Christchurch chamber of trade and commerce, said: “Total dismay is my reaction.

“The bridge is a main access to the town and the disruption it will cause will put many people off coming into town.

“The businesses in Castle Street and Bridge Street – of which my own business is one – in particular will suffer a significant loss of trade, which some of the traders can ill afford in an already difficult economic climate.

“It is essential for local traders that the period of closure is kept to a minimum and that the problems with the road are finally resolved once and for all.”

Cllr Nick Geary, portfolio holder for transportation at Christchurch council, said: “What we don’t know, and is obviously the concern, is how long this is going to take.

“I don’t think that will be decided until they start work on it and see what is causing the problem.

“The responsibility ultimately lies with Dorset County Council but we are doing all we can.

“At the end of the day, this is a very old bridge that has a huge volume of traffic over it.”