Work starts this month on two pedestrian/cycle bridges linking Taree's Bicentennial Gardens to Nelson/Pitt streets in Chatham.
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The bridges, to be built over Browns Creek and a disused railway cutting, represent the start of the Figtrees on the Manning development at Chatham.
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said these works, which have attracted a $8.5 million infrastructure development grant from the Australian Government, will unlock more than $455 million in private investment within the Figtrees on the Manning precinct.
"Bushland Health Group are making a significant investment to the development of not only the public infrastructure for the precinct, but also new residential and retirement lifestyle options for local and future retirees," Dr Gillespie said.
"Figtrees on the Manning will provide a major boost for our community and the broader region."
The pedestrian/cycle bridges are part of a larger project to create a continuous pedestrian/cycle path from Harry Bennett Park near the Martin Bridge through to the Taree Recreation Grounds.
MidCoast Council is working with landowners and the Bushland Health Group to deliver the new bridges.
Mayor of MidCoast Cr David West said this is an exciting first step in the overall Figtrees development.
"We're really looking forward to seeing this and the future infrastructure projects associated with the development, come to life for the community.
"This is a great team effort from everyone involved and we're grateful to Dr Gillespie for his work in advocating for the area," Mayor West said.
Contractors Fleetwood Urban have been engaged to design and construct the bridges and work is expected to take about two months to complete, weather permitting.
There will be no disruption to driveway access and minimal impact on traffic and boating in the area while the work is underway.
"The development will change our area for the better in the future and these associated pedestrian improvement works that the community will benefit from this year, is a real bonus," Mayor West said.
CEO of the Bushland Health Group, Denis Hawkins said the group was proud to be able to work in partnership with council to deliver public infrastructure for the Mid Coast community.
"As a not-for-profile health provider we are used to working with various levels of government to provide benefits to our residents, and we are pleased to be involved in a project that will realise long-term pedestrian access for Taree," Mr Hawkins said.
The eastern end of the Bicentennial Gardens will be closed to the public while construction takes place, with the team moving to the other side of Browns Creek, at the southern end of Nelson Street, in late October.
Works will be undertaken during normal building construction days and times and work will start on the connecting pathways upon completion of the bridges.
The $8.5 million Infrastructure Development Grant from the Australian Government will fund public infrastructure works including
- upgrading Pitt and Bligh Streets
- the intersection of Nelson / Lyndhurst Streets with Oxley Street (former highway)
- modifying the intersection of Pioneer Street and Chatham Street to extend turning lanes and
- upgrading the intersection of Bligh Street and Manning River Drive.
For further information on the Figtrees on the Manning development visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Plan-Build/Future-Planning/Development-Sites.
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