Outlet bridge plan polarising

For some, a 140-metre swing bridge over the Clutha River at the Lake Wanaka Outlet is a bridge too far.

But for others, a foot and cycle bridge linking the Outlet to Deans Bank and Dublin Bay is a great idea.

Upper Clutha Tracks trustee John Wellington readily admits his bridge proposal could polarise people.

But with development of ‘‘The Great Ride’’ - the New Zealand Cycle Trail - destined to reach Wanaka in the near future, the trust has committed to seeking suitable links between Albert Town, Wanaka and Dublin Bay.

Wellington thought it was important to ask the question so posted the bridge proposal on the trust’s Facebook page on July 19. ‘‘We didn’t send out a press release on this. It is not that well thought out. I just wanted to get the idea out there, rattle a few cages,’’ he said.

Rattle the cages he did, with his post attracting divided opinions and an accusation the trust was losing the plot.

Opposers thought it would be waste of money, spoil visual amenity, that existing routes to Dublin Bay were adequate or that the Albert Town bridge cycle lane should be upgraded.

Others thought the bridge would provide more options for access, including for wheelchair and pushchair users.

The Outlet Track is one of the most popular riding and walking tracks in Wanaka, providing an easy 5km riverside meander from the Outlet camping ground to Albert Town.

A bridge would take about 7.5km off the journey to Dublin Bay because people would not need to divert to Albert Town and double back to the lake.

There is no timeframe to take the Outlet bridge idea any further. Other link options could exist, Wellington said.

The trust has no money to build the bridge and would have to fundraise or rely on the possibility of getting Great Ride Trail funding for the project.