A town councillor is stressing the need for early communication surrounding the Placentia lift bridge.

The lift bridge has been experiencing periodic mechanical issues, being closed for part of the day Monday.

The town is trying to establish a protocol with government so that marine traffic that may be affected by bridge operations is notified as quickly as possible.

Councillor Jennifer Power says the link is vital to the town.

She says the commercial fishery relies heavily on the bridge for safe passage to the fishing grounds, and delays can have a major impact on the delivery of goods, vehicular traffic, and fisheries.