of Longbird Bridge to marine traffic.

Mr. Paul Wakefield, owner of the Sundeck Too , said the bridge had broken down around 10 times since undergoing a $1.8 million repair job in June.

"It certainly appears the money was not spent properly, he said.

The swing bridge, at the end of the Causeway, broke down again on Wednesday.

Engineers from the United States Navy Air Station spent yesterday investigating the mechanical fault.

Although road traffic can get across, no indication has been given when boats will be allowed through again.

Mr. Wakefield said he had kept a log of the break-downs, which lasted on average between 24 and 48 hours.

"It is incredibly frustrating, and I can speak on behalf of all boat owners.

It is mostly us who suffer.'' Mr. Wakefield said the constant break-downs had severely disrupted his business, which involves taking visitors on snorkelling and sightseeing trips.

"It causes delays, and has even led to cancellation,'' he added.