Kanieri Traffic Bridge

Hokitika Guardian, 24 May 1921, Page 2

Kanieri Traffic Bridge

CLOSING TO VEHICLE TRAFFIC

It is notified in this issue that the Kanieri bridge crossing the Hokitika river will be closed to all vehicular traffic un'til further notice—-commenc-ing on Friday next, and all vehicle traffic must for the time being be diverted via the Hokitika river railway and traffic bridge. It is understood that pedestrian traffic over the existing bridge will be arranged for. The need for the special restriction is said to be owing to the defective condition of the bridge to carry heavy traffic. It is not considered safe to allow the bridge to be used in its present state* with the present loading «ncried, and the speed at which most of the traffic crosses the bridge. For the safety of all concerned it is deemed desirable to close the structure altogether to wheel traffic. The bridge under present conditions is likely to be blockaded for some time, and on learning of the position to-day, Mr J. A. Murdoch, County Chairman, at once communicated with Mr Seddon, M.P. asking the member to wait on the Minister of Public Works with a view to accelerating the repairs and restoration of the bridge. It was pointed out first class timber could be cut now very readily at adjacent sawmills, and if th e Department would organise a repair gang, a very short time would suffice to deal with the worst spans, and render the structure safe for normal traffic. Mr Seddon was asked to urge this request as strongly as possible, as the want of the crossing would be a great loss and inconvenience to the neighbouring townships, as also of very great inconvenience to the general travelling public.