All three timber footbridges in Umbagong District Park, Ginninderra, have now been replaced.

The timber bridges were closed to the public in April 2021 after a safety audit revealed the popular bridges needed replacement. Work began on the new bridges in March.

The two smaller pedestrian bridges opened in July, and the third pedestrian bridge in opened today.

“Since 1986, when the timber bridges were first constructed, they’ve been important to the local community for the connectivity to nature and recreational opportunities they provide,” said Chris Steel, ACT Minister for Transport and City Services,.

“That is why I am very excited to announce the final bridge has today been opened with all three pedestrian bridges now replaced and open for the community to enjoy.”

The new bridges are a steel structure with handrails/balustrades and a rusted finish in contrast to the white timber bridges they once were. This rusted finish complements the natural setting and colours of the Umbagong native grasslands.

“In engaging with the community, we heard how valued the park and the bridges are,” Mr Steel said. “The bridges have always allowed people to stop and look at nature, whether it be birds, the native grasslands, or spotting lizards and other animal life.

“Which is why such an iconic part of the third bridge reopened today is the new lookout. What makes it so special is it was a request from the community. It’s been constructed with inclusivity front of mind, with enough space for wheelchairs and mobility scooters to turn around safely.”

Additional improvements to the park include formalising the carpark off Florey Drive and recycling healthy timber from the original three bridges to create seats.

“We are very aware of the environmental values within the park, and have been working closely with the Umbagong Landcare Group and the Ginninderra Catchment Group through the design and construction phases to minimise our footprint wherever possible,” Mr Steel said.

“The installation of single bollard at either end of all three bridges to deter vehicles from driving through the park is a further step in protecting the park from potential damage.”

Representatives of the Umbagong Landcare Group, the Ginninderra Catchment Group, and the Umbagong Bridges Community Action Group joined Mr Steel in opening the third bridge.

“I would like again thank the community for their patience,” Mr Steel said. “I know it’s been some time since you have had full access to the Umbagong District Park, and I’m thrilled we’ve today been able to make that happen just in time for spring.

To learn more about this project, head to cityservices.act.gov.au