The Beagle
Oct 26, 2017
Roads and Maritime Services have confirmed in writing that the new Nelligen Bridge will be slightly higher than the existing bridge, at 7.7 metres on the eastern side and 6.5 metres on the western side.
Underside clearances will range from 6.1 to 4.9 metres.
These heights have been determined largely by the Kings Highway's alignment on approach. The tourist ferries, which travel along the Clyde River between Batemans Bay and Nelligen, are around 8.5 metres in height.
As such, they will not be able to pass under the new bridge and it is understood by the RMS Principal Manager, Ministerial & Government Services Customer Relations & Government Services, that there are also no plans to raise the bridge's height, due to the substantial works required to adjust the Kings Highway's alignment, and increased impacts to protected wetlands.
As for the South Batemans Bay Link road and Princes Highway connection the RMS have confirmed in writing that the NSW Government provided $10 million in funding to Eurobodalla Shire Council in 2014 towards the development of a preferred intersection option for the road and the highway.
However, a final concept design, environmental assessment, planning approval and eventual construction are currently not funded.
"Should the NSW Government choose to progress completed works, Roads and Maritime will endeavour to carry them out accordingly."
No doubt the Eurobodalla Council and councillors has been clearly briefed on the above.