Reason behind Nelson Bay's missing bridge revealed

A Facebook post with photos minus the bridge sent social media pages into a frenzy, and with good cause as the Examiner later learned this was first time the bridge had been missing since its installation more than 30 years ago.

While imaginations of disappearing acts ran wild, a quick check with Port Stephens Council revealed that the temporary removal of the bridge was part of nothing more than a planned inspection and maintenance check.

A council spokesperson said that information about the removal and street closure had been provided to business and residents in the vicinity of Victoria Parade.

"Yes, it's the first time this bridge has been removed for inspection and yes, it is still under inspection. We have no date for its return as it will be dependent on what comes out of the inspection and what repairs need to be undertaken."

The spokesperson said that the bridge, which was constructed in 1988, had been designed in a way that it could be lifted off for maintenance.

"This inspection has been planned for some time, but we waited until after Easter holidays."

The works were scheduled based on a previous engineering assessment, which identified the need for further testing.

"In order to conduct the testing required, the bridge needed to be removed, which was done in the early hours of April 27, where Victoria Parade was closed between Stockton and Yacaaba streets," the council said.

Two 100 tonne cranes were required for the job, lifting the structure onto a truck for transport to Nelson Bay depot, where the bridge and support structure would undergo engineering inspections to identify the necessary maintenance works required.

"Following the engineering inspections, the council will undertake the recommended maintenance to ensure the bridge can continue to provide access for pedestrians into the future," the council spokesperson said.

"The extent of maintenance required is currently unknown and the council will continue to keep the community updated as information becomes available.

"Once all maintenance works have been completed, the bridge will be transported and lifted back onto the support structure.

"Again the council will schedule this work to commence at night, minimising any impact to traffic and pedestrians.

"A date for the reinstatement has not been determined at this stage, however, the council anticipates that the overall project will take between eight to 12 weeks depending on weather conditions, engineering assessment and extent of maintenance required.

"The council will keep the community and businesses updated as the project progresses."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: