Howitt Park pedestrian bridge upgrade to start in September

Work is set to begin this month on the replacement of the ageing pedestrian bridge at Howitt Park, with a new accessible steel and concrete bridge to provide a safer and more inclusive connection through the park.

The timber bridge has deteriorated over time, and it is not accessible to all people using wheelchairs, mobility aids or prams. The replacement will be built to modern standards, providing a stronger and more accessible connection for the many people who use Howitt Park and the Mitchell River Circuit Walk.

Thebridge will be a single span (no pylons in Clifton Creek), with a deck lengthof 25.7 metres and width of 3.2m. The width of the existing bridge is 1.2m.

• The existing bridge will close from Monday 14 September 2026 when construction preparations will begin.
• Pedestrians will be unable to cross Clifton Creek at the bridge site in both directions while construction is underway.
• A worksite will be located on the eastern side of the bridge.
• Several market stall sites at Howitt Park will also need to be temporarily unavailable during the construction period. Council has contacted monthly market organisers.
• Access to the Howitt Park boat ramp will remain open throughout the works.
• The project is expected to be completed in December.

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the project would deliver a significant improvement to the park’s infrastructure.

“This is an important upgrade for Howitt Park and the people who use it every day,” Cr Ashworth said.

“The existing bridge is ageing and its design means it isn’t accessible to everyone. The new bridge will address that and provide a safe, reliable and accessible crossing for years to come.

“We know there will be some disruption while the work is underway, but it will be worth it to deliver a bridge that works better for everyone.”

Thetimber suspension bridge is significantly worn. A 2024 inspection foundstructural degradation and prompted a reduction in the number of pedestrianspermitted to use the bridge at the same time.

A follow-up structural assessment in May 2025 confirmed that key elements, including columns, piles, girders, stringers, crossbeams and floor beams, required replacement. Council considered short-term repairs, estimated at between $350,000 and $400,000, but found that replacing the bridge would provide the best long-term outcome.

“Rather than continue investing in an ageing structure, we’re putting that money towards a new bridge that meets current standards and provides better access for the whole community,” Cr Ashworth said.

The contract for the $652,420 project was awarded in August to Jarvis Norwood Constructions, a specialist road and bridge builder based in Swan Reach.

Council will keep the community updated on construction progress through its website and Facebook page.

Council manages 218 bridges across East Gippsland – 191 road bridges and 27 footbridges. Over the past nine years, 153 timber bridges have been replaced with steel and concrete bridges or culverts.

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