Due to structural issues and termite infestation, Byron Council was forced to close the popular Tallow Creek footbridge at Suffolk Park today because of risks to public safety.

The closure comes after engineers inspected the bridge and found it to be unsafe.

The footbridge is on the path between the Byron Bay High School and the Ingenia holiday park at Suffolk Park, providing pedestrian access to the beach across Tallow Creek.

The timber bridge was built in 1987, and it has withstood all sorts of weather, including storms and floods.

While Council has maintained the bridge over the last 38 years, it is now beyond repair and needs to be replaced.

“We know that the closure of the footbridge without warning is a blow to the community, but unfortunately, we have no option when it comes to public safety,” Phil Holloway, Director of Infrastructure Services, said.

“Staff have looked at ways to keep the existing bridge open, but the salty environment is so harsh that it is not possible.

“Because the footbridge is such an important piece of pedestrian infrastructure, we are now looking at the possibility of an interim solution, such as the installation of a temporary structure that will allow people to cross Tallow Creek.

“As soon as designs for a new footbridge are finished, we will immediately be looking for grant funding for the construction of a new bridge because it is such an important asset and link to a beautiful, peaceful part of Byron Bay,” Mr Holloway said.