COUNCILLOR Peter Howard has raised questions regarding the Singing Bridge in Hawks Nest in the recent MidCoast Council meeting on 23 March 2022.

“There have been concerns raised by residents and community groups in the Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens area over the safety and condition of the Singing Bridge, urging Council to undertake some immediate repairs and maintenance including to the guard rails, pedestrian access and the Pelican spikes,” Cr Howard said.

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Cr Howard asked the Director of Infrastructure and Engineering Services Robert Scott, whether there are any undergoing plans to ensure this maintenance is taken.

Mr Scott says that the MidCoast Council conducts an annual bridge program in which the Singing Bridge is inspected and maintained.

“The most obvious concerns (of the bridge) are largely aesthetic and associated with a failed coating of the railings some years ago.

“As a result, it will likely require replacement of the railings with suitable hot dip galvanised sections at some time,” Mr Scott said

The Council also has plans to subject the bridge to an underwater inspection to monitor the condition of the structure below the waterline in 2022 as well as plans regarding pedestrian use.

“There are plans for modification of the pedestrian facilities to allow scooter traffic to be one way on either side of the bridge.

“This will make the current pedestrian situation safer for those using mobility aids and alleviate the risk that two people travelling in opposite directions will meet in the middle of the bridge,” Mr Scott said.

The Singing Bridge has been the topic of much discussion within the local community, with many residents raising concerns regarding the narrow footpaths on the Singing Bridge and the potential for a serious accident for some time.

By Tara CAMPBELL