Announcement of a US$20.4 million grant from the Department of Transport means that work can now begin on the long-awaited Twin Sails Bridge in Poole in southern England.
Securing the funding was the final hurdle before the US$53.3 million bridge can be built.
"Plans for a second harbour crossing have been considered for more than 30 years," said Borough of Poole councillor Ron Parker. "Confirmation of this funding means we can now turn these plans into reality. Over the next few weeks we will finalise the appointment of a contractor and expect construction to start on the Twin Sails Bridge early in the summer. The construction period will last for 20 months and the bridge will open to the public in early 2012."
The design of the opening bridge is by Gifford & Partners with Wilkinson Eyre Architects and mechanical engineer Bennett. Six contractors were shortlisted in November.
