Confusion over new Grafton bridge

THE RTA is continuing technical studies and field investigations around Grafton to help develop concept options for a new Grafton bridge, but there is no evidence studies are being conducted outside the famed “grey study area” immediately surrounding the existing crossing.

Much to the frustration of the Concerned Citizens Group, headed by Grafton real estate agent Kim Dahl, a media release issued by Labor Member of the Legislative Council for Clarence, Greg Donnelly, said nothing about broader options.

“From what Mr Donnelly says, he makes it clear that the RTA cannot be looking outside the study area as Mr Khalid Javed (Project Services Manager) stated at the focus meetings (in late August), when he said to all present that they would be and are looking outside the proposed second bridge study area,” Mr Dahl said.

In the release, Mr Donnelly said site investigations would look at heritage issues “around the bridge”, including indigenous, non-indigenous, maritime, local and state heritage sites.

“In addition, ecologists are looking at flora and fauna, both in the water and on land,” Mr Donnelly said.

“Social planners have held discussions with staff from Clarence Valley Council to look further at social and economic issues.

“Further geotechnical investigations will be carried out later this month with test drilling being carried out in the Pound Street viaduct area to determine soil type and the depth of the water table.”

Regarding the geotechnical studies being carried out in the Pound Street viaduct area, Mr Dahl asked: “Why would they go to the expense of conducting these studies if they were not going to do something in this area?”

“Other investigations include further traffic counters and a heavy vehicle survey with key businesses and depots being identified. This will include types of freight being transported, origins and destinations,” Mr Donnelly said.

“Noise monitoring equipment has also been used at various locations throughout Grafton and South Grafton to get a better understanding of noise levels.”

The draft reports from these investigations will be considered as part of the technical focus group meetings, Mr Donnelly said, which would be open to the public in the near future.

“The RTA is not disclosing the information that Grafton residents want to hear as has been shown through focus meetings, petitions, letters to the editor, meetings and just general discussion from residents in the street, and that is … they don't want the bridge where it is proposed,” Mr Dahl said.

Mr Donnelly said in his release a community update explaining where the project was up to was expected to be distributed within the next couple of weeks.

Neither Mr Donnelly nor the RTA were available for comment yesterday afternoon.