The Beagle
May 14, 2018
Community feedback has helped shape the future of Batemans Bay, with a number of improvements being made to the design of the replacement bridge.
Member for Bega Andrew Constance said today’s release of the submissions report marks an important milestone for the bridge replacement project.
“The submissions report responds to all feedback received on the concept design and environmental assessment displayed in November last year.
“As a result of feedback, the Kings and Princes highways intersection will be modified to improve traffic flow and feature additional slip lanes and traffic lights when long queues are detected.
“There will be a floating pontoon on the southern foreshore to provide better boat access.
“Pedestrian access across the river will also be improved with stairs on either side of the new bridge and Old Punt Road will be widened.
“Other changes include improvements to the North Street and Princes Highway intersection to allow trucks travelling south on the highway to turn into North Street without crossing onto the other side of the road.”
Mr Constance thanked the community for having a say and said the next stage will be to release the detailed design later this year.
“The new bridge will improve freight access by allowing larger trucks and B-doubles up to 26 metres in length to cross the Clyde River and reduce traffic delays at key Batemans Bay pinch points.
“It will also reduce economic and social impacts by removing the lift span issues and load limit on the existing bridge.
“The benefits don’t just stop there, as the new bridge will provide a safer and more reliable crossing for the Batemans Bay community well into the future.”
Work on the bridge is set to start in early 2019. Community members can read the submissions report at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/batemansbaybridge
Media Release