Background
Image: Hawkesbury Traffic Action Group
In June 2008 the then-NSW Labor Government announced it had committed $25 million to replace Windsor Bridge. The announcement followed investigations by the RMS (formerly RTA) into the condition of the existing Bridge.
Somewhat surprisingly, a report on the Bridge released after this stated:
"If the RTA intends to decommission the bridge in near future, the bridge in its present condition and loading will be safe for some time. (Samal, B and Brown P., (2011). Inspection and Structural Assessment for Windsor Bridge. AssessUTS Pty Limited, p 6.)
This means that the old bridge doesn’t need to be demolished, particularly if it were only to carry restricted loads such as light traffic, bicycles and pedestrians.
It also means that there is time for thorough assessment so that a long-lasting solution such as a bypass could be achieved instead of a quick fix that destroys Thompson Square and needs to be revisited in 10 years time.
Somewhat surprisingly, a report on the Bridge released after this stated:
"If the RTA intends to decommission the bridge in near future, the bridge in its present condition and loading will be safe for some time. (Samal, B and Brown P., (2011). Inspection and Structural Assessment for Windsor Bridge. AssessUTS Pty Limited, p 6.)
This means that the old bridge doesn’t need to be demolished, particularly if it were only to carry restricted loads such as light traffic, bicycles and pedestrians.
It also means that there is time for thorough assessment so that a long-lasting solution such as a bypass could be achieved instead of a quick fix that destroys Thompson Square and needs to be revisited in 10 years time.
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NINE OPTIONS
The RTA considered nine options to rehabilitate or replace the existing bridge (Fig 1). The RTA (RMS) selected Option 1 and the Minister for Roads and Ports officially announced Option 1 as being the preferred option. This is despite the fact that the RTA's only bypass option out performs Option 1 in a number of key areas. Oh, and NOT ONE of the proposed Options offered a genuine solution to our current traffic problems. A full investigation into a comprehensive, long term solution for the Hawkesbury has never been undertaken. The ARE alternatives. |
Fig 1. Options 1 to 9. RTA (2009). Windsor Bridge Over the Hawkesbury River: Report on Community Consultation. RTA, November 2009, p 5
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LET'S TALK ABOUT 'SUPPORT' FOR OPTION ONE
Approximately 75% of submissions in response to the EIS were AGAINST the project.
Petitions by CAWB have collected over 14000 signatures AGAINST the project.
Since occupying Thompson Square in July, 2013, CAWB has been approached by over 7000 people eager to sign letters to Barry O'Farrell, telling him they wont settle for this third rate plan.
...hardly overwhelming public support for Option 1.
