South West Rocks Back Creek footbridge is officially open to the public

The new structure replaces the old wooden bridge which closed in early 2019 due to safety concerns.

Council staff, members of the public and local Indigenous Elders attended the opening this morning.

Fig Tree community Elder South West Rocks Auntie Cheryl Blair and Kempsey Shire mayor Liz Campbell officially opened the bridge to the public.

"I would like to thank the community for being so patient while the new bridge was constructed," mayor Campbell said.

"The council staff made this happen in a short amount of time and I'm sure the businesses and residents of South West Rocks will be pleased with the new structure."

Predominately made of composite materials, the bridge is safer, will require less maintenance and has a longer lifespan. The construction of a new amenities block and footpaths near the entrance to the bridge will be completed before Christmas.

"The replacement has been a large project requiring significant planning and environmental investigation with construction also dependent on the tides. I am thrilled we have been able to provide a safer and modern bridge for the community," mayor Campbell said.

The project has been jointly funded through the NSW Government under the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

The old footbridge will remain during the busy holiday period before being demolished in February.

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