Shire says yes to bridge despite locals’ concerns

A SURF Coast horse riding business’s plans to build a bridge in Aireys Inlet is set to receive council approval despite some community backlash.

Blazing Saddles applied for a planning permit to construct the 21m-long bridge over Painkalac Creek on councilmanaged Crown land to allow horses and riders to cross the creek away from road traffic.

The Surf Coast Shire council received 42 objections and 18 letters of support for the proposal last month, with objectors concerned the structure would negatively impact the environment.

But a council report states the proposal is consistent with the objectives and policies of the planning scheme.

“The provision of the bridge will enable the existing trail riding business to continue to manage its tourist-based operations effectively and ultimately assist in public education and interpretation of the natural environment, consistent with policy,” the report states.

“Subject to the conditions proposed, it is considered that this can be achieved with minimal impact on the natural environment or natural processes.”

Objectors’ primary concerns surrounded the bridge’s ecological and environmental impact, including the potential contamination of land and water from horse droppings and trampling from horse movements.

Other fears included that the bridge would restrict the use of the creek by kayakers and paddle boarders.

Council is set to issue a notice of decision to grant a permit for the application at a council meeting on Tuesday.