Burrum River Bridge feasibility study finalised

The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government has delivered on its commitment for a feasibility study into a bridge over the Burrum River.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said the report investigated a coastal connection to the east of the Bruce Highway between Goodwood Road and Pialba–Burrum Heads Road via new road corridors and a new two-lane bridge over the Burrum River.

“This is a project which has been talked about for decades. Various costings have been thrown around but up until now there has not been a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis done,” Mr Pitt said.

“The feasibility study undertaken by GHD shows that construction of the bridge and road corridors is estimated to cost between $350 and $520 million.

“The report states that currently to drive from Goodwood Road to Hervey Bay is 59 minutes. With the new corridor the time saving is estimated to be between 13-18 minutes. The proposed bridge location is within a declared State Government Fish Habitat Area and Burrum Coast National Park.

“In 2016 a minor party candidate claimed the Burrum Bridge would cost just $28 million to build and even went ahead and named the bridge.

“It just demonstrates why minor parties shouldn’t be anywhere near the Australian Parliament or taxpayers money.  Just like Labor, they can’t be trusted with the economy.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack said it is important for infrastructure decisions to be well-informed.

“Feasibility studies, such as this one, provide important insights into the infrastructure pressures and requirements across Hinkler,” Mr McCormack said.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour said he was pleased to see proper consideration of infrastructure needs across the Fraser Coast.

“I am grateful to the Australian Government for funding this study, which is an important input into the conversation about future transport needs for the region,” Cr Seymour said.