Update: Kirwans Bridge, January 2024

29 Jan 2024

Click on the following link to view a PDF of current frequently asked questions regarding Kirwans Bridge:

Or click on the questions below:

FAQs

Has Council been successful in obtaining funding to secure a long-term future for Kirwans Bridge?

Council is continuing its advocacy efforts on securing funding for a long-term future for Kirwans Bridge.

Council will apply to all relevant funding opportunities possible to seek State or Federal support for the bridge.

We know we will need funding from the Victorian and Federal governments to complete the extensive structural repairs and strengthening works needed to reopen the bridge, or to build a new one.

What was the outcome of the recent Growing Better Regions Fund expression of interest application?

Council submitted an expression of interest to the Growing Better Regions Fund in August 2023.

Council was notified in January, 2024 it would not be invited to progress to submit a full application.

Council is continuing to seek every funding opportunity possible to get State or Federal support for the bridge.

What is the status on Council’s insurance claim on the bridge following the October 2022 flood event?

The Kirwans Bridge Community Panel was advised in November, 2023 that Council would not receive a significant payout, however we are still negotiating a final settlement.

When will Kirwans Bridge reopen?

The bridge will remain closed until funding is secured and works are complete. We want to ensure the bridge meets the need of the community for many, many years to come.

Working with the community panel, we have identified two options that will ensure the bridge remains open and is safe for the next 50 plus years:

Option 2.1: maintains the existing single lane bridge by undertaking a full renovation including replacing the decking with timber planks and steel girders. It has a 25-year lifespan and is estimated to cost about $5.5 million.

Option 2.2: also maintains the existing single lane bridge by undertaking a full renovation and including replacing the timber decking with concrete deck slab. It has a 50-year lifespan and is estimated to cost about $6.5 million.

Council will need funding from the Victorian and Federal governments to complete works to Kirwans Bridge. It means we need to continue to advocate strongly to share the importance of this bridge to the community and secure funding.

How can I help to seek funding for the future of the bridge?

Community support in our advocacy will help strengthen our efforts, meaning greater chance of success.

You can provide a message of support which will be sent to potential funders via: https://share.www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/kirwans-bridge-advocacy