UPDATE: In a contentious decision, the Bega Valley Shire Council voted on November 12, 2023, to replace the aging Cuttagee Bridge with a concrete structure, igniting fierce reactions from the community. The vote, which passed narrowly at 5 to 4, has raised urgent concerns about the future of the beloved landmark and its impact on local residents.
The decision comes after years of debate and public consultation, with many community members expressing disappointment. During the council meeting, loud shouts of “shame” echoed from the gallery as the council opted not to consider a single-lane hybrid design, referred to as “Option 1”, which had garnered significant public support. Instead, they favored “Option 3”, a two-lane concrete structure deemed necessary for future-proofing the crossing.
Councilors argued that the choice for a concrete bridge was driven by safety and long-term viability, despite the emotional attachment many locals have to the historical timber structure. The shift to concrete is projected to cost around $20 million, a stark increase from the estimated $7-8 million five years ago. This massive cost surge comes after a withdrawal of state funding due to eligibility criteria issues.
“This is one of the most scenic areas, and crossing Cuttagee Bridge is a source of joy,” stated a council member during the meeting. “We must not put in a stock standard bridge that looks like it belongs on the Princes Hwy.” This sentiment reflects the deep connection the community has with the bridge, which has been a landmark for generations.
Five years prior, a similar decision to replace the bridge was overturned following widespread public outcry led by the Save Cuttagee Bridge group, which has been instrumental in advocating for alternatives. Now, as the council moves forward with detailed designs for the new concrete structure, residents are left grappling with the emotional and financial costs of this decision.
Moving forward, council staff will prepare detailed designs that will clarify the total costs associated with the new bridge. While the decision has been made, the ramifications for the local community remain significant, as many fear losing a cherished piece of their heritage.
With construction costs skyrocketing and the desire for a bridge that preserves the character of the area, the community’s reaction is crucial. Officials have encouraged residents to express their thoughts on the decision, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping the future of Cuttagee Bridge.
As the council embarks on this ambitious project, the implications for Cuttagee and its residents will be felt for years to come. The tension between safety and heritage remains at the forefront of the discussion, leaving many to wonder if the decision made will truly serve the best interests of the community.
The story continues to develop as more details emerge. Community members are encouraged to share their reactions and engage in the ongoing conversation about the future of Cuttagee Bridge.
