General News
18 March, 2021
TMR refuses to answer questions.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) are remaining vague over the future of the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) are remaining vague over the future of the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda.
Locals have now noticed an increase in trucks and contractors who are now working on the bridge, rather than just inspecting the bridge.
Several local contractors including concreters, electricians and protective coating tradespeople have been spotted working on the bridge which contradicts earlier TMR reports, that the bridge was “being inspected.”
A report on the state of the bridge was meant to be handed down to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads the Hon Mark Bailey at the end of February. To date, this still has not happened. Last week The Express asked specifically ‘What is the delay with the report? When will it be completed? And when will it be handed to the Minister?
A TMR spokesperson issued a statement. “Investigations and repairs are ongoing on the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda," they wrote.
“We are finalising a report on the best way to manage the bridge, including on-going monitoring, remedial works and a timeframe for the single-lane closure.
“We will provide an update as soon as possible.
“We understand the importance of this route for the people of Cairns and the tablelands and thank local residents and motorists for their patience.”
When The Express mentioned that the above questions had not been answered we received “Our response was provided below.”
In a follow-up statement from Barron River MP Craig Crawford
“I’ve been advised TMR is still finalising the report on the Barron River Bridge, “ Mr Crawford wrote.
“I understand many locals will be frustrated with the delay but I think is more important the report is not rushed and can capture all the necessary information on the condition of the Barron River Bridge.
“As I have stated in the past, I will ensure that when I am presented with information on the bridge I will share that information with the community to ensure they have all the facts.”
A spokesperson for Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said “The Minister has asked for an update from his department on the Barron River Bridge and will share that update with the community once he's received it.”
