Budget talks over park bridge

PLANS for a $50,000 upgrade of the bridge at Emerald Lake Park will be considered as part of Cardinia Shire Council budget deliberations.
The bridge has been closed since late last year after an inspection revealed it had a number of structural faults. The bridge’s closure has been a subject of discussion in the community.
Cardinia manager of assets and development services Michael Ellis said the council was considering a proposal to repair the bridge.
Mr Ellis said if the council agreed to carry out the repairs as part of its 200607 works program the bridge could be reopened “hopefully in the new year”.
Mr Ellis’ comments on the bridge came at council’s 20 March meeting in response to a question from Emerald resident Brian Hannan.
Mr Hannan wanted to know when council would “bite the bullet” and commission an urgent review of repairing or replacing the bridge.
“Locals, tourists, handicapped and traders are disadvantaged,” Mr Hannan said.
“Emerald Lake Park is an international tourist destination and bridge repair or replacement should be outside the summer peak.”