Shire to replace Spring Creek “pallet bridge” with official crossing

THE Surf Coast Shire has announced it will replace the well-known “pallet bridge” over Spring Creek with a new pedestrian footbridge.

Planning to construct the new bridge at the creek crossing near the Spring Valley Bike Park and Spring Valley Playground is already under way, with shire officers working with relevant authorities to secure the permits necessary for the project.

Once established, the structure will provide another access point across Spring Creek and will connect with the new Surf Views Estate development.

Torquay Ward councillor Liz Pattinson said it was great to see the project getting started.

“The pallets that kids have placed there have provided an informal crossing point for years, but it’s great to be able to have a proper crossing that everyone can use.

“This new bridge will provide a safe crossing point for kids to ride to school, taking them away from the busy highway.

 

 

“As Torquay grows it’s important to have links that connect new communities and encourage more people to use sustainable transport methods.”

According to the shire, removing the pallet bridge will also benefit the creek, allowing the waterway to re-establish its natural flow.

The new pedestrian bridge will also help to reduce the impact of bikes being ridden over the creek, which has led to erosion of both the creek bed and bank.

The project, which will be funded by the shire through a developer contribution fund, will also include revegetation works around the site, with additional revegetation efforts on the cards once the creek has had time to regenerate and its natural flow has been restored.

Works are expected to begin later this year, once all the necessary permits are in place.

To follow the project’s progress, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/SpringCreekPedBridge