smoother

Mr Sahkhofeler said there was a small risk to one of the branches of the facial nerve, but knowing this beforehand and being able to plan around it meant the operation was smoother.

If they approached contractors as a group and sourced materials together, he believed they could save money and ensure a smoother path towards restoration.

"And where we do see the potential for a more positive, less bumpy, smoother ride is in the second half of the year, and that's because you're going to have more policy certainty."

Anecdotal claims about smoother skin or increased energy are likely to be placebo effects.

"Meaning it is now smoother and more slippery than it used to be, so we need to act now to ensure the bridge remains safe for people to use," they said.