COMMUNITY INVITED TO SHARE FEEDBACK ON HISTORIC BAWDEN BRIDGE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR PLANS

ROBERT HEYWARD

The community is encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed rehabilitation of Bawden Bridge on Old Glen Innes Road, west of Grafton, following the release of the Review of Environmental Factors (REF). A Transport for NSW spokesperson announced that the NSW Government is allocating $12.1 million from the Bridge Rebuilding and Bridge Repainting Programs for crucial maintenance and repairs.

“Constructed in 1873, Bawden Bridge is one of six of the oldest lattice truss designs in NSW and provides an important link over the Orara River,” the spokesperson said.

“This essential maintenance and repair work will ensure it continues to provide a safe and reliable service for motorists for many years to come.

“Transport for NSW has prepared a Review of Environmental Factors, which is now on display, and wants to hear the community’s thoughts on the maintenance plans including a three-week bridge closure.”

The spokesperson explained that the project will involve temporarily setting up a site compound, installing scaffolding, and replacing the timber deck.

“Work will also include repairing and strengthening the truss spans, including installation of new steel cross girders and traffc guidance, removing lead paint and repainting the truss spans including the three supporting piers,” the spokesperson said.

“As part of the project, Transport for NSW will need to temporarily close Bawden Bridge for three weeks to allow the new bridge deck to be installed through the truss spans.

“Timing of the closure is planned for the school holidays in January 2026, weather permitting, and will be confrmed as the project progresses. “We look forward to hearing from the community so we can ensure the best possible outcome for them as we carry out this essential refurbishment.”

The project is expected to begin in mid-2025 and take approximately two years to complete, depending on weather conditions. The Review of Environmental Factors report is now available for public viewing, and the community is invited to provide additional feedback until Sunday, 27 October 2024.

Feedback can be submitted by visiting nswroads.work/ bawdenbridge. Additionally, drop-in information sessions have been scheduled for Tuesday, 15 October, giving community members the opportunity to speak with the project team. The frst session will be held from 11 am to 1 pm, and the second from 3 pm to 5 pm at the Waterview Heights Squash Club, 27-39 Rogan Bridge Road, Waterview Heights.