Bainham’s Salisbury Bridge closed for safety investigations
One of the biggest tourist drawcards in western Golden Bay is closed and will remain so for perhaps another fortnight.
The Salisbury suspension bridge near the start of the Heaphy Track has been closed for about two weeks pending further investigation of the structure by engineers.
"The bridge is an old structure with a significant span and a fourteen- or fifteen-metre drop to the river below," said TDC engineering services manager Peter Thomson.
"The routine inspection revealed some concerns about aspects of its structural components. We've closed the bridge to make improvements to ensure that people will be able to use it in good safe condition."
Mr Thomson said that it was unfortunate that the closure had occurred during the holiday season and apologised for any inconvenience it had caused. He said that he was hopeful the bridge would be open in time for Waitangi weekend. Mr Thomson also issued a warning to people who plan to use the bridge after it re-opens.
"It's important that the bridge is appropriately signed and that it's used appropriately by the public," he said. "That means paying attention to the loading restrictions."
Neil Wilson
