THE controversial reopening of a Poole road to motor vehicles was completed yesterday morning.

Keyhole Bridge in Whitecliff Road was reopened to traffic following the removal of planters that had been in place last summer.

As reported, BCP Council's scrutiny board marginally voted against extending a traffic order which prevented motorised vehicles from using the route.

This was the final hurdle that had to be cleared before the road could reopened after Conservative cabinet member for transport Cllr Mike Greene approved the move in January.

The traffic order was one of several introduced by the previous Unity Alliance administration in summer 2020 under a government scheme to encourage more people to walk and cycle.

The closure split opinion, including among the elected members who represent the two council wards in which the bridge falls.