Plans underway for new Crows Nest footbridge

As final preparations are put in place for a number of flood recovery works around the region, Crows Nest residents will welcome the news that advanced planning has begun on the replacement of the Bullocky's Rest footbridge.

Toowoomba Regional Council Infrastructure Services portfolio leader Cr Carol Taylor said the footbridge was damaged beyond repair (and beyond further use) during the January 2011 flood event.

"We have included the footbridge as part of our Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) restoration works," Cr Taylor said.

"Council is awaiting NDRRA funding before commencing work.

"Council understands the lack of a footbridge at this key location is of concern to the Crows Nest community as it offers the only all-weather walking and cycling link to the township, that's why we are committed to getting this work underway as soon as possible, Cr Taylor said.

"What we ask residents to remember is the NDRRA guidelines specify that we can not claim any labour costs on NDRRA projects if we do the work ourselves.

"So, that means the projects must be contracted out for TRC to receive the associated State and Federal Government funding. The good news is this process is well underway and we anticipate the new bridge to be in place in early 2012. We thank Crows Nest residents for their patience and understanding during this period," Cr Taylor said.