Replacement of a closed bridge at Halls Ford on Maniototo Road, estimated at $540,000, looks the likely solution after engineers recommended the existing structure be removed.

The aged and damaged wooden bridge was closed nearly a year ago and inspections had been delayed several times due to river levels and Covid-19 lockdowns, according to a Central Otago District Council (CODC) report.

The 93 year old structure links the two parts of the Paterson family farm as well as being a public route running the length of the plain.

It was one of three bridges closed in January after severe flooding but, like the Scott Lane Bridge at Kyeburn, had already been weight-restricted due to age-related cracks and damage existing before the floods. 

Engineering consultants Beca recommended to the CODC that access to the structure be removed to prevent further unauthorised use prior to any replacement being built.

Residents have expressed frustration over the time taken to address the problem, which was costing businesses and the public time and money in detours.

A solution for the Scott Lane bridge which was destroyed in the floods was also going to be costly even without building a new structure, the council were told yesterday.

Due to the dynamic nature of the riverbed which changes and carries a lot of debris during floods, a series of box culverts across its bed was seen as the best option.

Estimates for the installation of these was between $650,000 and $750,000. 

Councillors questioned whether those creating debris, eg tree clearances by the Otago Regional Council and farmers whose fences and vegetation washed downstream, should be involved in helping fix issues.

The third bridge at Linnburn Runs Road, whilst old was still a possibility for repair and may last another 20 to 30 years if work is carried out, particularly in adding additional support to rotted abutment beams.

A report to council stated that the cost to complete this would be around $80,000-$100,000 and could be accommodated within existing roading renewal budgets.

The costs were estimates only and more detailed costings would be reported to the council in late January. Decisions would then have to made on what would occur at each site along with design and planning work.

The council is currently undertaking an assessment of all 179 bridges in Central Otago to enable them to assess and prioritise work. Many bridges were aging and the Maniototo in particular was home to the greatest number that would soon start to require attention.