The repair of a popular footbridge which connects Camden and Elderslie over the Nepean River has just got a $2.5 million boost.
Little Sandy Bridge and the surrounding riverbank was left significantly damaged after the Camden area was devastated by four floods in just five months in 2022.
Each flooding event worsened the riverbank erosion, causing the current bridge to be unviable and a new design necessary.
The $2.5 million in funding from the state and federal governments was accepted by Mayor of Camden Cr Ashleigh Cagney in December during council’s recess period.
It is part of a $70 million community assets program, administered by the Department of Regional NSW for restoration or betterment of community infrastructure damaged by the February and June 2022 floods.
The funding will help Camden Council deliver the design and construction of the project, including the repair and betterment of path access on Little Sandy Bridge and the enhancement of the embankments to resist future flood events.
The design is scheduled to be completed in the later part of 2024 and quotations for construction completed by the end of 2024.
Cr Cagney, pictured above, said the funding would go a long way in supporting the Little Sandy Bridge repair and resilience provision.
“We know how important Little Sandy Bridge is as a pedestrian walkway and cycleway for our residents,’’ Cr Cagney said.
“We were devastated by the impact of the floods on this significant connection in our area and that’s why we’re committed to repairing the bridge and ensuring it is resistant to floods moving forward,” she said.
“Thank you to the Department of Regional NSW for this very welcome funding.”
In related news, Camden Council has been awarded $126,668 under the NSW Government’s floodplain management program.
Camden Council will put this funding towards the Nepean River floodplain risk management study and plan in the wake of the 2022 floods.
The study will look into evacuation capability and emergency management during heavy flooding events.
It will also look to provide the community with awareness, understanding of how flooding impacts them and the response arrangements during floods.
Camden MP Sally Quinnell, who announced the study grant, revealed she will be meeting with major stakeholders later in the year for a flood response round table.
Great news long over due
I hope the new bridge will be about three metres higher than current bridge or two reasons.
1/ Less chance of flood damage.
2/ Easier access on and off the current bridge. I’ve seen both young and older people pushing bikes and prams
etc.up the grade, especially on the Elderslie side.