Ballina Shire Council is progressing plans to duplicate two key bridges and their approaches, Fishery Creek Bridge on River Street, West Ballina, and Canal Bridge on Tamarind Drive, North Ballina, as part of a major infrastructure project to improve safety, traffic flow, flood resilience, and emergency access.

Planning and pre-construction works are continuing, with bridge construction expected to begin in the second half of 2025 and be delivered over a two-year period. 

“Early works are well underway, with water main and underground communication services successfully relocated at Canal Bridge,” said Brett Dyki, Manager Project Management Office, Ballina Shire Council.

“Relocation works at Fishery Creek Bridge commenced in May and are expected to be completed by July 2025.”

Review of Environmental Factors (REF)

As part of the planning phase, Council has prepared a Review of Environmental Factors (REFs) for each bridge project and is now seeking public feedback. 

These REFs:

• outline the proposed bridge designs and construction methods
• assess potential environmental and community impacts
• explain how impacts will be minimised or managed.

“The REF process allows us to take a close look at how these projects could affect the environment and local community, and plan carefully to minimise any impacts,” said Brett.

“We encourage the community to review the documents and share their feedback. It's a vital step in making sure all concerns are heard and considered before we move forward with final designs for this major project.”

The bridge duplications have been funded with $40 million from the Australian Government through the Emergency Response Fund, administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program.

To learn more, download and review the REF documents, and provide your feedback, visit www.yoursayballina.com.au/ballina-bridge-duplications-ref-consultation.

Submissions close Friday, 13 June.

For ongoing project updates or enquiries, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/BallinaBridgeDuplications or contact Council on 1300 864 444.