THE morning lifting schedule for Poole Bridge has been revised by BCP Council.

Council officials say the new timetable should increase journey time, reliability and improve traffic flow.

On Thursday night the bridge was left unable to raise, following a localised power cut in the quayside area.

Yesterday, BCP Council confirmed SSE engineers had rectified the problem.

From Monday the 5.30am, 6.30am and 7.30am lifts will be replaced with lifts at 6am and 7am.

The changes are being made in response to additional demand on the transport network following the ongoing technical fault with Poole’s Twin Sails Bridge, which BCP Council says won't reopen until autumn.

Councillor Andy Hadley, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure, said:“We’ve identified the most optimal times to raise the bridge and we are confident that the revised Poole Bridge lifting schedule will have a positive effect on the network and ease congestion for those travelling to and from Hamworthy.

"This new schedule will remain in place until urgent repairs can be carried on Twin Sails Bridge. We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.’’