The Martin Bridge won't be painted during the next financial year, despite a $3 million allocation in the 2019-2020 NSW State Budget.
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The funds will be used to continue the ongoing project, where required preparation work will be carried out ahead of the impending paint job.
This has been earmarked for late 2019 or early 2020.
With a total estimated cost for the project between $18-20 million, Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said the work must be completed before the beloved bridge is painted.
"It's a huge project where they'll strip it all back and repair the bridge," Mr Bromhead said.
Talks between the RMS and Mr Bromhead indicated money is already locked in for the 2020-21 budget. This will be used to complete the majority of the work.
The project isn't as easy as it seems. Once all preparation work is complete, workers will need to cocoon the bridge before painting can begin.
As a lead based paint will be used, every measure will need to be taken based on the potential environmental impact it would have on the Manning River below.
A floating barge underneath the bridge will also ensure the paint doesn't go into the water.
Taking this into consideration, Mr Bromhead added more pieces of the puzzle will need to fall into place.
"There are only two companies in the State that can do the work so it is also based on their availability," Mr Bromhead said.
A year ago, Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) commissioned an eight week maintenance program on the bridge. Steel beams, rivets and bolts were repaired and replaced in readiness for painting.
Almost a decade on, calls to paint the bridge pink have fallen on deaf ears. We'll just have to settle for a deep shade of grey.
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