Watch The Twin Sails Bridge Take Shape

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Graham Wilson, has officially opened the public viewing area of the Twin Sails Bridge.

The platform, on a construction site at Wilkins Way, off West Quay Road, will allow residents and visitors to see first-hand the construction of the Twin Sails Bridge from a fantastic vantage point.

The viewing area will remain open at all times but may be closed when work could impact on the safety of viewers. Advance notice will be given of any closure. There are no car parking facilities on site.

Cllr Graham Wilson, Mayor of Poole, said:

"Poole has been waiting for a second harbour crossing for many years and I am delighted that the wait is nearly over. The construction site in Hamworthy is a hive of activity and I'm thrilled that the public will now be able to get a close up look at the development of this iconic bridge. I hope local people will watch the progress of the Twin Sails Bridge with eagerness and pride and look forward to its completion in early 2012."

The opening of the viewing area follows the launch of an exhibition at Poole Museum which gives people the opportunity to learn more about the history of harbour crossings between Poole Town and Lower Hamworthy. People have been making this crossing since Roman times and the interactive display at the Museum focuses on the ferry and bridge crossings of the past few centuries.

Jim Bright, Strategic Director, Borough of Poole, said:

 "We have received many enquiries from local residents who would like to watch the Twin Sails Bridge throughout its construction process. Last year the marine and piling works took place in cofferdams, watertight structures allowing work to take place in dry conditions on the Channel bed. Most of the works taking place now is above the water creating the ideal opportunity for people to watch as our new bridge begins to take shape over the coming months."

"We hope local residents and visitors will visit the exhibition at the Museum and see Poole's rich history of harbour crossings and then visit the Twin Sails Bridge viewing area to watch the next chapter in our history."

Twin Sails and the History of Harbour Crossings in Poole Exhibition is free and is open Monday - Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 12 noon to 5 pm.