AGENDA ITEM 6 BOROUGH OF POOLE TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY GROUP 21 NOVEMBER 2013 – REPORT OF HEAD OF TRANSPORTATION SERVICES PLANNED LIFTING BRIDGE MAINTENANCE ARRANGEMENTS 1. PURPOSE OF REPORT AND POLICY CONTEXT 1.1 To consider the approach of applying annual closures of Twin Sails and Poole Bridge, each for up to one week, for pre-planned, essential maintenance works. 2. DECISION REQUIRED It is recommended that the Portfolio Holder approve: 2.1 The proposed maintenance arrangements for the two lifting bridges, based on annual one week closures, as set out in this report. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 The mechanical and electrical systems associated with two lifting bridges require regular essential maintenance to reduce the risk of breakdowns, minimise the risk of expensive repairs and maintain public safety. Similar installations typically have a planned shut down annually to undertake key maintenance tasks. 3.2 For many years Poole Bridge was closed for the autumn half term week for annual checks, maintenance and minor repairs. As traffic flows on this vital link in the road network have increased, and public acceptance of extensive traffic disruption has reduced, night time working practices have been adopted. Furthermore annual closures have not happened in recent times given the construction of the second bridge. However, this approach has generated other pressures as covered below. 3.3 Both the lifting bridges require regular maintenance of the following type: Tasks carried out on a weekly or monthly basis that can be done without disrupting the use or operation of the bridges. This work is undertaken by the Council’s in-house maintenance team.
AGENDA ITEM 6 BOROUGH OF POOLE TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY GROUP – 21 NOVEMBER 2013 REPORT OF HEAD OF TRANSPORTATION SERVICES PLANNED LIFTING BRIDGE MAINTENANCE ARRANGEMENTS 1. PURPOSE OF REPORT AND POLICY CONTEXT 1.1 To consider the approach of applying annual closures of Twin Sails and Poole Bridge, each for up to one week, for pre-planned, essential maintenance works. 2. DECISION REQUIRED It is recommended that the Portfolio Holder approve: 2.1 The proposed maintenance arrangements for the two lifting bridges, based on annual one week closures, as set out in this report. 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 The mechanical and electrical systems associated with two lifting bridges require regular essential maintenance to reduce the risk of breakdowns, minimise the risk of expensive repairs and maintain public safety. Similar installations typically have a planned shut down annually to undertake key maintenance tasks. 3.2 For many years Poole Bridge was closed for the autumn half term week for annual checks, maintenance and minor repairs. As traffic flows on this vital link in the road network have increased, and public acceptance of extensive traffic disruption has reduced, night time working practices have been adopted. Furthermore annual closures have not happened in recent times given the construction of the second bridge. However, this approach has generated other pressures as covered below. 3.3 Both the lifting bridges require regular maintenance of the following type: Tasks carried out on a weekly or monthly basis that can be done without disrupting the use or operation of the bridges. This work is undertaken by the Council’s in-house maintenance team.
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