To reopen the suspension bridge connecting Cameron Park with one of Wellington’s prominent sporting grounds would be “the final piece of the puzzle”, according to councillor David Grant.
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Dubbo Regional Council is working to secure funding through the state government’s Stronger Country Communities Grants program to repair or replace the bridge which has been closed to the public for several years due to structural integrity.
It is a project Cr Grant believes – although not urgent – would boast economic and health benefits for the community should it be pursued.
With the beautification of the park, and now the walking track, it would be the final piece of the puzzle.
- Cr David Grant
“With the beautification of the park, and now the walking track, it would be the final piece of the puzzle,” he said.
“As it is we are missing out on outside dollars in terms of the economic benefit for the CBD.”
Cr Grant added that the project would not only appeal to local community members, but those visiting the town be it passing through or attending community events such as the Wellington Boot, Springfest or sport carnivals.
“People with caravans or [mobile homes] could pull up at Pioneer Park, duck in and grab lunch and be on their way again,” he said.
“And it would be good in terms of sport carnivals too because it would be an easy link to the CBD.”
In its current form the 35-year-old bridge is seen to have been visibly challenged by the elements which Cr Grant said includes a history of rising flood waters which have flirted with the bottom of the piece of infrastructure.
While the conversation is still in its early days the councillor said he anticipates any upgrades to the bridge would take high prioritisation in ensuring accessibility for more than just people on feet.
“It would be great to have something that is wheelchair and pram friendly, and ultimately link the walking path to the CBD and our sporting facilities,” Cr Grant said.
“As it is it’s not easy access.”
Cr Grant said his fellow councillors within Dubbo Regional Council have been fully supportive of the project which has been in the pipeline for almost a decade.
The grant application now awaits recognition by Member for Dubbo, Troy Grant.
“Councillors are keen to see things happen in Wellington,” Mr Grant said. “It has been on the agenda for the last 10 years.”
