Slam for bridge planning

Andrew Mathieson
BARWON HEADS’ bridge will adopt a portion of its historic 1927 design to secure heritage approval under Vicroads redevelopment plans.
But Friends of the Bridge leading campaigner Bernard Napthine slammed the mixed concept for the new bridge.
Barwon Heads residents fought tirelessly to stave off the bridge’s demolition last year.
Many favoured a new river crossing aligned with Geelong Road and retention of the existing bridge for walkers and cyclists.
Vicroads plans “repairing and restoring” 60 per cent of the bridge to how it first appeared 80 years ago to make way for pedestrians and fishermen.
The other side would be open to two new lanes for traffic and bicycle paths.
The widening of the bridge and pedestrian access were among Heritage Victoria requirements to approve the project.
“The bridge is about 80 years old and has reached the end of its life and we’re in a stage where it has to be upgraded,” said Vicroads south west region acting regional director William Tieppo.
“This plan means we’ll have a reasonably good looking bridge and one that can be used safely for many years.”
The public had provided presentations to a State Government appointed advisory committee which had “aligned” the recommendations to the proposal, Mr Tieppo said.
But Mr Napthine said the new bridge had failed to live up to expectations.
He said Vicroads had not provided answers about adjoining roads, car parking, loss of vegetation, removal of a roundabout adjacent to the bridge and installation of traffic lights.
“The new bridge is big, it doesn’t answer all our problems and I do have grave concerns.”
Vicroads will run information sessions next Friday at Barwon Heads Community Hall.