The intention is that the bridge will allow development of four major sites, two in Poole Town Centre and two in Hamworthy, including the old power station, which was closed in 1988.

[3] To permit the passage of boats through the navigation channel, the lift spans were planned to pivot to 88 degrees[4] powered by two hydraulic rams which operate up to 15 times per day[5] and take two minutes to fully open.

[6] Two 55-metre (180 ft) high masts are fitted to the lifting leaves, the top two metres illuminated with white LED lights.

Metamont Ltd installed marine grade stainless steel balustrade including the variable colour DMX lighting.

[10] After negotiations were settled in August 2009, there was a further delay in the allocation of the £14.14 million government grant which was finally agreed in March 2010.

[12] Problems with the road surface caused the bridge to remain closed although the opening ceremony and visit by The Princess Royal went ahead in early March 2012.