Engineers have advised improvements can't safely be made to Audley Weir and a new structure is the only option, an Illawarra MP said.
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Member for Heathcote Lee Evans' announcement follows on from community anger after the lengthy closure of the roadway thanks to record rainfall in March and April.
The weir has flooded on several occasions since then, closing the road numerous times.
"The community have been impacted due to the affect on Audley Weir from the unprecedented flooding. I have been working closely with them to seek solutions to improve the management of the weir," Mr Evans said in a statement.
"I called for Transport for NSW to conduct an engineer report which has now been undertaken.
"The result of the engineering assessment has stated there are no possible improvements able to be made which won't impact the structural integrity of the weir which is why a new structure is the only way forward.
"I have now formally requested the Roads Minister to commence a business case for a precast concrete bridge solution.
"In the interim, I expect the flood management procedure to be streamlined for more responsive opening and closing which the Roads Minister understands."
In July 2022, measures were announced to improve information and safety during flooding of the weir.
An electronic message sign was installed at the intersection of Sir Bertram Stevens Drive and Bundeena Drive to notify vehicles of weir closures, replacing the ageing "flip-sign" previously in place.
Hard barriers were also installed on both sides of the weir to stop vehicles crossing during flooding and new live-traffic cameras were promised to monitor flood levels at the weir.
While the improvements were expected to be helpful in the short term, Sutherland Shire Council was pushing for much more - advocating for the state government to provide a long term solution, such as raising the wall of the weir, as soon as possible.
Sutherland Shire mayor Carmelo Pesce wrote to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) on April 6, calling for:
- Combined action by the two bodies to improve maintenance of the causeway drainage and weir water level system to minimise blockages of the outlets by debris and the weir being dammed unnecessarily;
- Provide timely notification of conditions on the causeway to road users to ensure safe, ready navigation and to avoid undue penalty infringement notices being issued to motorists when the weir is marked closed but has been clear and safe to cross for some time;
- Engage with the residents of Bundeena and Maianbar, as well as the Audley businesses, to provide details of the improved maintenance activities to be carried out and the expected outcomes to be achieved.
A resolution passed by the entire council that month also called for short and long-term action by the state government.
Murray Trembath
St George and Sutherland Shire Leader reporter covering politics, urban affairs, council, development and general community news. Email: mtrembath@theleader.com.au
St George and Sutherland Shire Leader reporter covering politics, urban affairs, council, development and general community news. Email: mtrembath@theleader.com.au
