Public donations have started rolling in towards the project to redesign the Pawson’s Crossing bridge over the Cardrona River, making it more accessible for all users.

The Upper Clutha Tracks Trust (UCTT) has turned to public funding to help pay the $32,000 project costs to redesign the bridge, replacing the existing timber stairs with four new ramps, two on each side of the river. 

The ramps will be a grade two cycleway slope similar to the ramps approaching the Hāwea River swingbridge.

This bridge gives access to the Upper Clutha River Track and tracks along the Cardrona River, including trails from Templeton Park, in Albert Town, to Halliday Road, Stevenson’s Road and the Cameron Creek track.

“It’s the last part of that track network that’s not very accessible. The ramps will make it a lot easier for bikes and wheelchairs,” UCTT member John Wellington said.

He said the trust had applied to several grants organisations but only the Albert Town Community Association and Lion Foundation had contributed $1500 and $19,050 respectively towards the project, leaving the trust about $12,000 short. The trust has created a givealittle page to fund the shortfall.

The redesign of Pawson’s Crossing bridge with four new ramps.

“We have tendered the project and have a contractor in place ready to go at the end of next month,” John said.

The ramp design was donated by the Department of Conservation and Southern Ventures Ltd has donated an additional $5,000 to provide a site specific planting plan and plants. 

A community planting event will be arranged in due course, John said.

Anyone wishing to donate to the project can contribute to the givealittle page here. 

PHOTOS: Supplied