Concern over the future of the iconic Story Bridge is circulating across Brisbane, following news its in dire need of restoration.
Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has confirmed the 84-year-old bridge will require a major renewal program to outlive its 100-year lifespan.
Brisbane City Council has already invested around $78 million in maintaining the Story Bridge since 2019 but now admit a business case is required to determine exactly what work needs to be done to restore it.
The Brisbane City Council Opposition raised concerns a few months ago, when the funding allocated for the Story Bridge restoration project disappeared from this year’s Council Budget papers.
Leader of the Opposition, Cr Jared Cassidy says the project has bee poorly planned and poorly managed.
“$80million over five years was originally allocated for this project and, as costs blew out, Council decided it wasn’t as important as other projects they had in mind.”
“The LNP has overseen this council for two decades and has failed to maintain our city’s assets,” he says.
“The Lord Mayor is happy to say the repair works are too much for them to handle but then go around splashing cash on attending the Paris Olympics, lavish bridge opening parties and unnecessary advertising.
“Brisbane ratepayers are paying more and getting less under this Council,” says Cr Cassidy.
The Story Bridge has been a responsibility of Brisbane City Council since 1947.
The Story Bridge carries 100,000 vehicles a day and heavy usage combined with exposure to the elements means without intervention the bridge has approximately 20 to 30 years of remaining life.
A comprehensive restoration program that addresses issues such as corrosion, applies protective coatings and replaces aged steel and footpaths is needed to extend the Story Bridge’s serviceable lifespan by another 80 to 100 years.
