Gloucester region residents are being encouraged to have their say on the upcoming removal of the old Barrington Bridge.
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Transport for NSW is inviting feedback on the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the removal the old bridge on Thunderbolts Way near Gloucester following the opening of the new bridge to traffic in late May. The new $17 million bridge of the same name officially replaced the original 100-year-old single-lane timber truss bridge.
According to member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen Transport for NSW is now preparing to remove the old bridge in line with the recommendations in the Timber Truss Bridge Conservation Strategy with the removal reducing environmental impacts and ongoing maintenance costs, and prevent safety risks associated with the weathering and deterioration of the old structure.
Transport for NSW will develop a heritage interpretation plan of the old bridge at the site, if the proposal to remove the old bridge proceeds. Uses for the old bridge may involve elements such as signage, reuse of timbers, photographic records and donations of pieces to the community.
"The old bridge was built in 1920, and through our Timber Truss Bridge Conservation Strategy, we have delivered a project that balances up-to-date infrastructure with heritage conservation," Mr Johnsen said. "The REF has taken into consideration the views of experts and local stakeholders regarding both the environmental and social impacts of removing the bridge."
Residents are encouraged to submit feedback on the REF until 5pm on Thursday November 12.
The REF is available to view online at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/hunter-bridges/barrington-bridge/index.html.
Hard copies of the REF are also available to view at: MidCoast Council, 89 King Street, Gloucester - 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, Gloucester Library and Gloucester Information Centre, 27 Denison Street, Gloucester and Barrington Store, 12-16 Argyle Street, Barrington.