The footbridge over Blind Creek in Fairpark Reserve was built as part of the Reimagining Blind Creek project from Scoresby Road to Manuka Drive in Boronia and Ferntree Gully which was completed in mid-2021. The project included 'daylighting' and naturalising a 650-metre section of Blind Creek which was previously an underground, low-flow pipe with a grassed high-flow channel. The project also included the construction of community infrastructure assets such as shared paths, viewing platforms, stepping stones and a footbridge over Blind Creek. The project was jointly funded between Melbourne Water and Knox City Council.

In 2023, we became aware that there were some concerns with the bridge, and we commissioned an independent assessment which identified the need for some additional works to further strengthen it, and to extend the life of the asset. As soon as this advice was received, we closed the bridge as a precaution and in the best interests of public safety, so that we could determine the next steps. 

Works to re-open Blind Creek footbridge 

We're undertaking modification works to strengthen and extend the life of the footbridge. These works will take approximately 10-12 weeks to complete, and the bridge will be re-opened following this.

We have appointed a contractor, BPC Projects, to complete these works on our behalf.

What to expect

  • A small site compound will be set up near the bridge.
  • Access to the works site will be from the recently completed car park at Fairpark Reserve via Park Boulevard.
  • Work hours will be 7am – 6pm Monday to Friday, and 7am – 1pm on Saturdays. Quiet work and other critical activities (eg. concrete pouring) may occur outside these hours.
  • Some minor noise is expected from construction machinery, vehicles and equipment.
  • Public access around the works area will be maintained, with a minor temporary diversion of a small section of the Blind Creek Trail around the works zone. 

We thank you for your patience and co-operation while we undertake these works to re-open the bridge as soon as we can.

Bridge works and detour plan
Blind Creek footbridge works area and detour plan

 

Complete
 

Bridge temporarily closed

Late March 2023

Complete
 

Planning and design of bridge modifications

Mid 2023 to early 2024

Started
 

Construction works

Early May 2024

Not Started
 

Re-opening of bridge

Mid 2024

Long-term plans

We are working closely with Knox City Council on plans for longer term arrangements of the bridge, and we’ll continue to keep you updated with this next stage.

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