Construction for a proposed footbridge connecting Brimbank and Moonee Valley remains at an impasse decades after it was promised to locals.
As reported by Star Weekly in 2021, the bridge, planned as part of the River Valley estate in 2001, will allow residents to cross the Maribyrnong River into Avondale Heights.
Brimbank resident John Girardi said he has been following up on the bridge’s status for years.
“For me it’s just another example of neglect in the west. It’s a no-brainer to have that bridge built and it’s taken forever,” Mr Girardi said.
“Plus all that housing in the River Valley estate. When they purchased those houses, they were made with the promise that the bridge would be built.”
Works on the bridge had historically been delayed due to confusion between Brimbank council, Moonee Valley council and Parks Victoria over who would hold responsibility for ongoing ownership and maintenance of the bridge.
During its September meeting, Brimbank council said, earlier this year it resolved to accept the ownership of the bridge and the long-term maintenance following the bridge contractor’s initial 10-year maintenance period with the developer.
Brimbank council said planning approvals must be finalised by the developer, YourLand, for the bridge’s construction to commence.
However, YourLand told Star Weekly the timeline for construction remains dependent on approvals from Moonee Valley council, as well as Brimbank council’s approval of other elements of the estate.
YourLand said the key challenge at present is that Moonee Valley council, which governs Avondale Heights, has not yet resolved to allow the bridge to be constructed.
According to YourLand, the 10-year maintenance obligation requirement, imposed by Brimbank council on the developer, was also not part of the original development plan for the estate, which YourLand said has resulted in additional planning requirements.
Moonee Valley council mayor Ava Adams confirmed YourLand requires further planning approvals from Brimbank and Moonee Valley to construct the bridge, and said the developer will also need to work with, and seek approval from, other agencies with an interest in the land.
YourLand said it understands Brimbank council is currently in discussions with Moonee Valley to seek a resolution.
