New Boambee Creek footbridge a shining light at tunnel’s end

The iconic Boambee Creek rail footbridge is set to be built anew after City of Coffs Harbour endorsed a plan to replace the ageing infrastructure. 

The footbridge provides pedestrian access from Sawtell to the southern end of Boambee Beach and has become an ‘Instagram spot’ for locals and visitors – but the carriageway above the creek had reached a point where it required major repairs. 

The City had investigated a scope of works which included replacement of wind bracing, and some of the pier supports, roof sheeting and stringers which was anticipated to extend the life of the footbridge by 10-15 years.  

An alternative proposal to completely replace and fabricate a new footbridge offsite was identified by the City as a better value option. This would see the old footbridge removed and the installation of a new structure featuring galvanised members with fibre-reinforced plastic decking. 

The design life of the new footbridge is 25 to 35 years. 

“A new build is the best option for ratepayers and it will provide an access path to and from Boambee Beach for many years to come,” City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Cr Paul Amos said. 

“The footbridge is an important community asset, and one that is treasured by both residents and visitors to this beautiful spot.” 

At its meeting on 8 February, City of Coffs Harbour approved a proposal for the City to enter into an agreement with the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to replace the footbridge. 

The footbridge sits in the rail corridor and it’s intended that an ARTC-accredited contractor would undertake the works which would fall within the City’s budgeted allowance of $657,373. 

“ARTC’s current preferred structures contractor is scheduled to undertake work commencing February 2024 on its own infrastructure, so the City can dovetail the footbridge replacement into that window of opportunity,” City of Coffs Harbour City Infrastructure Director Andrew Beswick said.