extended bridges

[Eliot Lee]

At a class taught by del Fandrich, I remember him not advocating extension
bass bridges, which I don't understand.

After reading W.B. White's book, he writes,"Bridges should not be brought
too near the edges of the soundboard where elasticity is at a minimum and
the stiffness at a maximum. In tight places if the string length is to be
prserved, an extension bridge may save the day."

I wondered what the consensus and knowledgable opinion is from the piano
builders.  If the extension  bridge is not used what is an alternative?

Thanks,

Eliot Lee