Lauriston, Lauriston Road - Footbridge Safety Works

Council has assessed the historical Lauriston Road footbridge as unsafe for pedestrian use due to structural concerns.

The footbridge and the area underneath the bridge are temporarily closed to ensure public safety.

The Lauriston Road footbridge is located over the Coliban River in Lauriston, 4.47km from Burton Avenue intersection.

This project is to carry out identified bridge safety and fencing works on the historical footbridge. These works are funded by the 2024-25 Capital Works Program.

Council officers have worked with heritage specialists and water authorities to come up with a safe and viable solution. Further updates will be provided on this page as the project progresses.

February 2025 update

After careful assessment and consideration, we will be proceeding with the dismantling of the bridge’s superstructure (elements of the bridge sitting above ground).

Our approach to this project is as follows:

Retaining the substructure: Where feasible, the existing substructure of the bridge (elements of the bridge sitting below ground) will remain intact, to preserve its structural integrity and minimise disruption to the surrounding area.
Preserving heritage elements: Elements of the bridge’s superstructure that hold historical or heritage value will be carefully retained. These components may be repurposed or incorporated elsewhere near the bridge, to enhance the site’s historical significance.

We understand the significance of this bridge, in particular to the Lauriston community. Our goal is to honour the heritage of the bridge, while ensuring the site remains safe and reflects its historical importance. We will continue to work closely with heritage specialists and other stakeholders to ensure this project aligns with community values.

Council is currently in the process of tendering out the necessary works. Further updates, including a timeline for the project and any potential impacts, will be shared as this project progresses.