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Council will consider the future of Allansford’s Ziegler Parade bridge at an open meeting this Monday.
Mayor Cr Ben Blain said there would be many factors to weigh up when determining the future of the bridge.
“There are engineering, technical and financial issues to consider, along with safety and amenity issues,” Cr Blain said.
“It’s a complex picture and there will be a range of information coming to a Council meeting that covers all aspects of the bridge’s operation and use.
“The options could include replacement, repair or a staged closure.
“The future of the bridge will be evaluated in a broader context of access into and out of Allansford that will include other highway access points.
“Improved access into the town was flagged in the Allansford Strategic Framework Plan from 2021.”
The Ziegler Parade bridge has operated with safety restrictions since 2011 when a 14-tonne weight limit was applied to the bridge.
In 2017 the bridge was closed for a month while it was assessed for flood damage. In that same year concrete barriers were installed on the bridge as a safety measure while the speed limit was lowered to 20kmh.
“The Ziegler Parade bridge was built in 1937 on foundations which date from the 1870s,” Cr Blain said.
“We know there will be considerable interest from the Allansford community about the bridge and we’re keen for residents to be aware that this is an issue that Council will debate at a meeting this Monday.”