Cause of Sutton bridge collapse still under review

REGARDING the disaster that occurred in the Strath Taieri during the recent heavy rain. The Sutton suspension bridge built in 1885 had withstood many, many floods including bigger ones than the recent one.

People remember the 2003 flood when 600mm of water flowed over and through the bridge without major damage.

It appears Fulton Hogan was doing repairs prior to the event and failed to remove its scaffolding from under the bridge when dire warnings of a big flood were given. This was the cause of the tragedy.

As it was the only access to the southeastern part of the valley, perhaps Fulton Hogan or the DCC would like to comment. The bridge was a work of art — a national treasure.

Mark R. Thompson

Dunedin [Richard Saunders, group manager transport, Dunedin City Council, replies: ‘‘The DCC is carrying out a review of the bridge failure to determine the most likely cause. It is too early to say at this stage whether the scaffolding contributed in any way to the failure. A salvage plan and a report on options for rebuilding the bridge are being prepared. The bridge will be salvaged and the materials stored, but no decision has been made on reinstatement at this stage.’’

[This letter was also referred to Fulton Hogan, which replied: ‘‘Due to our contractual agreement with the DCC, unfortunately all inquiries need to be put through to the council to respond to.’’]