Masterton’s swingbridge across the Waipoua River will be closed from Wednesday (21 April) as work begins to replace its deck.
The work is scheduled to be completed in May and will allow access by all users, including mobility scooters. These were stopped from using the bridge, near Queen Elizabeth Park, in February last year after timber in the deck was found to be lifting.
The deck of the bridge, first opened in 1939, will be replaced with a synthetic composite fibre reinforced plastics product, with a non-slip surface and minimal maintenance requirements.
Masterton District Council Roading Services Manager Kaine Jaquiery said the Council appreciated the temporary closure of the bridge would be inconvenient for some people, with the SH2 bridge on Opaki Road the closest alternative route across the river.
“We will be aiming to complete the work as quickly as possible, and are looking forward to the swingbridge being accessible once again for all users,” he said.