NSW Minister for Roads Duncan Gay and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres today announced that Transport for NSW had unveiled the AECOM report, identifying the preferred location and access points for a bridge linking pedestrians and cyclists between Emu Plains and Penrith.
Mr Gay and Mr Ayres made the announcement atPunt Road, south of the existing Victoria Bridge crossing.
“The NSW Government has committed $20 million to fill a missing link in Penrith’s active transport network – the proposed Nepean River Green Bridge,” said Mr Gay.
“I’m pleased to be here today to announce that residents, business and community organisations can now have their say on the future of the Nepean River Green Bridge.
“The draft AECOM report will be on display at Penrith City Council and Emu Plains Libraries over the next two weeks to inform the community of the outcome of the bridge location study and provide an opportunity for public comment.
“I’d particularly like to congratulate Stuart Ayres who took up the fight for this project when he was elected in 2010.
“In two short years, he’s done more than Labor could in all its 16 years in Government.”
Mr Ayres welcomed the announcement.
“Developing the new bridge is an opportunity not only to reconnect communities on both banks of the river, but to make the crossing safer and more direct for the many pedestrians and cyclists, including school children, who need to travel between Emu Plains and Penrith,” he said.
“I know the community will welcome today’s announcement.
“This draft report examines the best location for a pedestrian and cycle bridge, and pathway access options to the bridge from Penrith and Emu Plains.
“We want to hear the community’s views on the suggested location for the bridge.
“It’s very important we deliver the best possible outcomes for the whole community and we encourage everyone to have their say.”
Mr Ayres said the new bridge would also help complete the popular Nepean River Walk, which is currently being developed by Penrith City Council.
“The pedestrian and bicycle facilities on the existing Victoria Bridge are narrow and close to heavy traffic using the Great Western Highway,” he said.
“While the Long Term Transport Master Plan is expected to identify other important active transport projects for Sydney, improving walking and cycling connections across the Nepean River was an important election commitment by the NSW Government.”
The report can also be viewed on the Transport for NSW, Roads & Maritime Services and Penrith City Council websites.
A steering group has been set up to guide the delivery of the Nepean River Green Bridge.
The group includes representatives of Transport for NSW, Roads and Maritime Services, Penrith City Council and the Victoria Bridge Community Taskforce. Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP is also a member of the group.
The report will be displayed for two weeks and submissions close 17 July 2012.
