The bridge and boardwalks of Puckey’s Estate are set for an upgrade, with the tender for works accepted at Monday night’s council meeting.
The works will focus on the bridge over the Towradgi arm of Puckey’s Lagoon and repair of the boardwalk from the bridge to Squires Way. Repair of the smaller boardwalk at the northern end of Puckey’s Estate off the lower walking track will also take place during the works.
The current timber bridge and boardwalk have deteriorated over time and will be upgraded to ensure safe community access continues to the popular walking track and coastal reserve.
As part of the works, the existing timber deck and handrails will be replaced with more durable fibre-reinforced polymer decking and stainless-steel handrails.
Acting Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Tania Brown said Puckey’s Estate is a wonderful coastal greenspace and securing access to the walking track was important for the community.
“The reserve is an annexe of our Botanic Garden and is known for its walking tracks. It’s a favourite space for people exercising, bird watchers, community groups, schools, and houses a range of important local flora and fauna,” she said.
“Securing the future of a southern access point to Puckey’s Estate will mean that this space can continue to be easily enjoyed by our community for years to come.”
During construction of the southern boardwalk and bridge, there will be no through access from Puckey’s Estate to Squires Way. Users will be diverted along the Squires Way shared pathway during this construction phase. The works are set to take place in two phases between mid November and May 2021, with access reopened between 20 December to 31 January to allow the community to utilise the area during the peak summer period.
