Unfortunately, Mitchell Shire Council’s response was not included in the original article. The Telegraph apologises for this omission.
Chief executive Brett Luxford said council understood the importance of the bridge and was working to preserve and restore the significant historical structure.
“Council has requested quotes for waterproofing works on the bridge that are planned for later this year,” he said.
“The proposed budget still contains the full $3.5 million for restoration that was allocated in the previous budget.
“However, it has been allocated over two years instead of one.”
The proposed budget now contains $2 million in 2024-25 and $1.5 million in 2025-26.
Mr Luxford said the project was phased over two years because of concerns that the total $3.5 million may not be able to be spent in a single financial year.
“This is due to the complex and intricate nature of the works and the need to go through a tender process to select an appropriately skilled contractor,” he said.
He said the budget also contained a further allocation of $2.4 million in 2026-27 for the pedestrian bridge installation once the restoration was complete.
“Council will continue advocating for funding from state and federal government to support this important project,” Mr Luxford said.
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