A CONTRACTOR has been appointed to carry out the major £4.2m improvement works at Poole Bridge.

The specialist construction company, Interserve, will carry out extensive repairs - which will result in the bridge closing to all traffic, including pedestrians, for nine months from September.

Borough of Poole (BOP) transportation head Julian McLaughlin said: “We are fully committed to ensuring Poole continues to benefit from a two-bridge system to safeguard the future economic growth and employment opportunities in Hamworthy.”

Engineers will replace of the bridge’s 85-year-old approach spans and associated supporting piles, which have worn out.

The works also include the replacement of the lift motors and the entire control system, as well as replacing the traffic barriers and lighting systems. Wider footpaths, which have been designed for shared use with cyclists, will be provided on the lifting span.

BOP transportation Cllr

Drew Mellor, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transportation, Borough of Poole, said: “These improvements are part of a much wider co-ordinated programme that will see the A31 to the Port of Poole benefit from significant investment over the next few years.”

Meanwhile, Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership chairman Gordon Page said: “This £4.2million full structural upgrade

will ensure Poole Bridge continues to offer a vital route into the port.

“It forms part of a series of infrastructure investments that will strengthen the area’s economic growth, enable housing and create jobs in and around the Port of Poole.”

Poole Bridge will close to

all traffic on Monday, September 12.