Bridge work to go ahead
CONSTRUCTION on a controversial bridge between two of Cairns’ northern beaches suburbs is expected to start within the next six months.
Cairns Regional Council is progressing with plans for its Barr Creek footbridge, which will provide a safe pedestrian and cycleway link between Holloways Beach and Machans Beach.
The bridge is part of the council’s $13 million Northern Beaches Leisure Trail. Work is programmed to start mid-2019 and expected to be completed by March 2020.
The route will be from Willow Reserve, and the end of Magnolia St, Holloways Beach, across the creek to the end of Marshall St, Machans Beach.
The council, which has provided an update about the project, said in consideration of recent community consultation, along with ecological and environmental impacts that were still to be assessed, minor variations to the preferred alignment were “likely.”
“The alignment that has been presented to the community for consultation is the preferred alignment because it best meets the funding criteria of providing a more direct connectivity along the coastline,” a council spokesman said.
“It provides fishing opportunities. It showcases our beautiful beaches and views.
“And it offers the most visibility and prominence from a community-based surveillance perspective.”
Residents have opposed the bridge, claiming it will increase crime between the two suburbs, and result in rubbish being dumped into the creek.
The council’s spokesman said lighting on the bridge and at the approaches would be taken into consideration. HONOUR: Former Cairns dancer Jade Wood won the Telstra Ballet Dancer of the Year Award and the Telstra People’s Choice Award.