THE long-awaited restoration of a historic footbridge over the Old Calder Highway is finally complete.
The bridge, which reopened last week, was erected on bluestone abutments to replace an original 1854 timber bridge which had been washed away.
Ownership of the 1868 wrought-iron box girder bridge, used as a gateway to Keilor Village for cyclists and pedestrians, was transferred to Brimbank Council by VicRoads a year after it was closed due to safety concerns.
As reported by the Weekly, the council last year agreed to accept responsibility for the bridge if VicRoads honoured a commitment to undertake a structural assessment, complete all works required to improve safety and provide ongoing and maintenance.
VicRoads has since completed $228,000 of works to the 144-year-old structure.
Keilor Historical Society president Susan Jennison said it was important to see a symbol of the suburb’s history in working order.
Council administrator Meredith Sussex said the bridge provided an important link between Keilor township and Brimbank Park.
“It is considered a rare and intact example of 19th century Victorian engineering, constructed as a direct response to the transport demands of the gold rushes.
“The design was adventurous and experimental for its time and had no direct comparisons in Victoria.”
Western Metropolitan MP Andrew Elsbury said VicRoads had worked closely with the historical society during the upgrade to ensure the site’s heritage was preserved.
